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Grand Canyon

Vast, magnificent and inarguably beautiful, the Grand Canyon is easily Arizona's most distinguishable landmark — a natural wonder you must see to believe. Stretching 277 miles from end to end, the Grand Canyon's rocky walls descend more than a mile to the canyon’s floor, where the wild Colorado River continues to carve away at the rugged landscape. Everyone should see the Grand Canyon at least once in their lifetime, and area businesses and outfitters make experiencing the canyon accessible to everyone.

From the Rims

If you are short on time or prefer to take in fantastic panoramas from paved viewing points, simply visiting the Grand Canyon creates memories that stick with visitors forever. Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim is the most popular visitor area, with plenty of places to eat, shop and stay the night in area hotels or campsites. The Grand Canyon Railway offers a fun family alternate for a short visit to the canyon. It operates turn-around trips from Williams to the South Rim year-round, with a three-hour window to see the canyon. Its annual Polar Express excursions are the stuff holiday traditions are made of. While less developed with fewer services and closed during the colder months, the North Rim is open from May to October and offers a unique and uncrowded way to explore the Grand Canyon. Grand Canyon West is also a favorite for short visits. Its Skywalk takes Grand Canyon visitors out over the rim on a glass bridge that hovers 4,000 feet above the canyon floor. Choose your vantage point and get ready to take pictures you will never delete.

From the Canyon Floor

If your group leans more toward the adventurous side, find many ways to fully immerse yourself in this natural wonder of the world. Trailheads at any of the entry points lead to steep switchbacks that take visitors into the canyon. Commit to a few hours to hike to plateaus fully encircled by the canyon walls. To hike to the Colorado River on the canyon floor, plan to camp overnight before hiking back up from the river to the rim. Many experienced hikers join seasoned outfitters on grueling rim-to-rim hikes or multi-day backpacking adventures to fully immerse themselves in the splendor of the canyon. Outfitters also offer Grand Canyon white-water river rafting adventures on the Colorado River, which can last from half a day to two weeks. Helicopter tours, mule rides and mountain bike rim trails offer other memorable ways to see the canyon in person. Survey the adventure level of your travel companions, and then use the following resources to plan the adventure of a lifetime in the Grand Canyon.

3 Perfect Days in the Grand Canyon

This three-day itinerary in Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim covers all the must-see stops and gives you the scoop on where to photograph the sunset.

3 Perfect Days in

The grand canyon, ways to explore.

Plan Your Trip

Getting to the grand canyon.

Find the best routes to reach the North and South Rims of the Grand Canyon.

South, North, and West Rims

The Grand Canyon is like a paintbrush, dipped in golds and pinks and oranges and purples, swept over narrows and crags in an area that’s an...

Arizona's Must Sees

Around the Rim Tours

Explore the Grand Canyon with a guided tour or ride – on a bike, on foot or perched atop a friendly mule.

Outdoor Adventures

First-Timer's Guide to the Grand Canyon

For those making their first trip to the Grand Canyon, here's an expert take on when to go, where to stay, and how to get around.

Grand Canyon Air Tours

See the canyon from high above with a helicopter or airplane tour.

Outdoor Adventure

Hiking the Grand Canyon

Explore the Grand Canyon by foot. From the most popular hike on the Bright Angel Trail to many more hikes that offer a scenic view.

Rafting the Canyon

Choose from motorized or oar-powered expeditions ranging from four days to two weeks for a new perspective.

Family Activities

Grand Canyon for Kids

Find out how your kids can become Junior Rangers during your Grand Canyon vacation.

Accommodations

Historic lodges, hotels to rugged campgrounds, the Grand Canyon has a wide range of places to stay – book early.

Awesome Grand Canyon Fun for Families

Experience Arizona's world-famous landmark through the eyes of a child (although these family friendly activities promise fun for all ages).

More to Discover in Arizona

Road Trips & Tours

The Old West, Wilderness and Wine: Traveling in Southeast Arizona

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Arizona's a big state with a lot to see and do for just about anyone, but these 13 experiences are only found here.

Arizona's Roadside Attractions

Find all kinds of roadside sights—odd, unexpected and one-of-a-kind— across Arizona.

Grand Canyon After Dark

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the best places in Arizona to view the night sky and go stargazing.

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Everything to Know Before Visiting Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a must-visit — here's what you need to know before you go.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Know Before You Go

Best time to visit, how to get there, best things to do, places to stay, places to eat.

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

There are few natural wonders that can challenge the great jaw-dropping size and beauty of the Grand Canyon. It is a mile deep and 10 miles across, showcasing an eye-catching array of layered red rock that reveals millions of years of geological history in a single glance. It is a wonder that is so bold, big, and beautiful that it marks planet Earth in a scar that can be seen from space. 

To see the 277-mile canyon, you should visit Grand Canyon National Park in northern Arizona, a protected area that contains most of the canyon and the Colorado River that runs through it.

“The canyon landscape itself is the main draw for visitors from all over the world,” said Joelle Baird, a public affairs officer at Grand Canyon National Park, in an email interview with Travel + Leisure . She has lived and worked at the Grand Canyon for 12 years and says the landscape is special for many reasons. 

“Many visitors are surprised by how high in elevation we are here (7,000 feet on the South Rim, 8,000 feet on the North Rim), so we have ponderosa pine and juniper/pinyon pine forests that encompass the high desert landscape as well.”

To provide you with a comprehensive guide to the park, we leaned into Baird’s expertise. After 12 years working in and along the canyon — as a biological science technician, preventative search and rescue ranger, and now a public affairs officer — she offers a wealth of inside knowledge. Below are her recommendations on everything from when to visit to where to hike.

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Grand Canyon National Park straddles the canyon itself and is broken into two sections: the South Rim and the North Rim. 

Most people see the canyon from the South Rim, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round and is home to the main Grand Canyon Visitor Center. The South Rim also has a second visitor center, Verkamp's Visitor Center, which focuses on the people who have lived along the canyon and showcases what it was like to live and work in the park. To get to the South Rim, you can enter at the South Entrance near Tusayan, Arizona or the East Entrance (Desert View) near Cameron, Arizona. Most people use the South Entrance.

“I would recommend visiting the South Rim for at least a few days if it's your first trip to the canyon. The South Rim has a lot of visitor services including hotels, restaurants, and ranger programming that is definitely worth checking out,” said Baird.

Meanwhile, the North Rim near the Arizona-Utah border is quiet and remote, and completely closed to visitors between Dec. 1 and May 14. It is quiet and beautiful on the North Rim, but it also has fewer services, even in the summer. The North Rim Visitor Center and Park Store is open from May 15 to Oct. 15.

If you want to visit both rims, you have to take a five-hour drive around the canyon. For that reason, most visitors choose to just visit one of the canyon’s rims.

To enter the park from any entrance, you’ll have to pay $35 per day, per vehicle, or purchase the $70 annual park pass. Grand Canyon National Park does not require reservations or time-entry passes to enter the park.

Most people visit Grand Canyon National Park between late May and early September. June, July, and August tend to be the busiest months. The quieter “shoulder seasons” run from March to May and September to October, while the low season runs November to March.

The South Rim, which is open year-round and is easier to get to, is always busier than the North Rim of the canyon, which is only open between May 15 and Oct. 15, weather dependent. If you’re planning to visit the South Rim over school holidays, summer break, or fall weekends, you should expect long lines, limited parking, and crowded viewpoints. To lessen wait times, you can buy your park pass in advance in Tusayan, the South Entrance gateway town; enter the park at the less-busy East Entrance; or take the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona to the South Rim. 

According to Baird, if you don’t need to visit the North Rim, winter can be an extra-special (and quiet) time at the South Rim. “As a resident of Grand Canyon, my favorite time is the winter! We typically receive low visitation and many of the popular viewpoints are uncrowded. It is a much quieter time and the contrast between the red rocks of the canyon and snow on the rim is a magical sight.” 

The best time to see and photograph the Grand Canyon is typically at sunrise and sunset . Sunrise is between 5:11 and 7:40 a.m., depending on the season, while sunset fluctuates between 5:14 and  7:49 p.m. 

Related: The Best Times to Visit the Grand Canyon

The closest town to the South Rim is Williams, Arizona, which is a direct one-hour-and-20-minute drive on Route 64. From the larger city of Flagstaff, the South Rim is one hour and 45 minutes via Route 180. Phoenix is the closest major city (and airport) and is three hours and 45 minutes away by car. Las Vegas is around four hours and 45 minutes from the South Rim.

Once you’re in the South Rim “village,” there are several free shuttle buses that take you to various viewpoints, sites, and trailheads around the rim. Some routes run year-round, while others are seasonal. Check the schedule on the website .

You can also get to the South Rim on the Grand Canyon Railway , which departs from Williams, Arizona. By taking the train, you can avoid entrance line waits and parking headaches. 

The North Rim, which is typically open between May 15 and Oct. 15, is around two hours south of Jacob Lake, Arizona on Highway 67. Las Vegas, which is over 5 hours away by car, is the closest major city and airport to the North Rim. And as we previously mentioned, driving between the two rims takes a full five hours. 

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

Scenic Drives

One of the best ways to experience the size and beauty of the canyon is to drive the Desert View Drive along the South Rim. The road takes off near the South Rim village and continues along the canyon rim for 23 miles, passing six viewpoints and a Tusayan Pueblo site. A shuttle bus also runs along this route.

Hermit Road (formerly West Rim Drive) runs in the opposite direction of Desert View Drive on the South Rim and offers a completely different look at the canyon (with nine viewpoints). Hermit Road is closed to private cars from March 1 to Nov. 30. During that time, there is a free shuttle bus that runs along the road.

On the North Rim, you can drive between Cape Royal and Point Imperial on a scenic road with plenty of pullouts and viewpoints, including Walhalla Overlook and Roosevelt Point. Keep in mind the North Rim and its scenic roads are closed in the winter. 

Related: Best Grand Canyon Viewpoints

If you’re interested in going down inside the canyon, a raft trip is a must. There are full and half-day river trips that can be arranged through lodging accommodations on the South Rim, along with multi-day excursions down the Colorado River (for the latter, you need to secure a permit in advance). 

Merrill Images/Getty Images

Road Biking

On the South Rim, there are around 13 miles of bike-friendly road and greenway trail (including Hermit Road, formerly known as West Rim Drive). The shuttle buses have bike racks so you can bike out and ride the bus back. There are regular and e-bike rentals available from the Bright Angel Bicycles shop adjacent to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center on the South Rim.

Cultural Demonstrations

There are ongoing cultural demonstrations at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center on the South Rim. These free demonstrations allow park visitors to meet members of the area’s 11 Indigenous groups and watch how traditional and modern crafts are made. 

Best Hikes 

Canyon rim trail.

This flat route runs right along the rim of the canyon and is a great introduction to the park. It starts at the visitor center at the South Rim and follows the edge of the canyon, eventually running alongside Hermit Road, which has nine exceptional overlooks.  

Trail of Time

The Grand Canyon has a long and beautiful geological history, and it’s showcased along the Trail of Time, which runs almost three miles round-trip along the canyon rim between the Yavapai Museum of Geology and Verkamps Visitor Center on the South Rim. Each meter walked on the timeline trail signifies one million years of Grand Canyon's geologic history, and there are samples of rock and exhibits that explain how the Grand Canyon was formed.

South Kaibab Trail

Baird says, “Day hikes into the canyon should definitely be on your list if it's your first time.” She recommends hiking along the South Rim’s South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge (three miles round-trip) or Skeleton Point (six miles round-trip). Just keep in mind, the trail descends into the canyon and is extremely steep. The national park notes that “the openness of this trail lends itself to extreme heat during the summer months and little to no protection from passing storms.”

Bright Angel Trail

Another in-canyon hike on the South Rim that Baird recommends is the Bright Angel Trail to the 1.5- mile rest house or the three-mile rest house. This route follows in the footsteps of the canyon's Indigenous people, miners, and early tourists.

Transept Trail

This route on the North Rim follows the canyon rim from the Grand Canyon Lodge to the North Rim Campground. The canyon views are plentiful on this three-mile round-trip hike. 

North Kaibab Trail

This is the only maintained trail that goes into the canyon from the North Rim. You can go as far as you want, with the Coconino Overlook and Supai Tunnel just 1.5 miles and four miles round-trip, respectively. The North Kaibab Trail goes all the way from the rim to the river at the bottom of the canyon, but the park warns that “Under no circumstances should you attempt to hike from the rim to the river and back in one day” as the route is 28 miles round-trip with a steep 6,000-foot descent.

Hotels and Lodges

On the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, there are seven year-round lodging options. Five are in the historic district and are bookable online at grandcanyonlodges.com . The other two are located on Market Plaza near the visitor center and can be booked on visitgrandcanyon.com . 

Standouts include El Tovar Lodge in the historic district, which is located directly on the rim and is a National Historic Landmark. El Tovar has hosted park visitors like Theodore Roosevelt, Albert Einstein, and Oprah Winfrey. Maswik Lodge South just opened in June 2022 for visitors looking for a modern take on traditional national park lodging. And Yavapai Lodge on the Market Plaza is notable because it has clean, simple rooms and is pet friendly.

There are also plenty of places to stay outside the park near the South Rim, including the Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel in Williams, Arizona where the train to the Grand Canyon departs from. Baird notes that “staying close to the park during your visit ensures you can make sunrise and sunset times more convenient.”

On the North Rim, the only lodge within the park is the Grand Canyon Lodge , which fills quickly during the North Rim’s opening window of May 15 to Oct. 15.

Campgrounds

There are four campgrounds along the South Rim, including the year-round Mather Campground for tent camping and Trailer Village for RVs. The South Rim also has two seasonal campgrounds that open for the spring, summer, and fall: Desert View near the East Entrance and Ten-X Campground.

There are also two seasonal campgrounds on the North Rim of the canyon, the North Rim Campground and the DeMotte Campground. Neither have hookups.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Camping at the Grand Canyon

On the South Rim, there’s everything from grab-and-go lunch options (check out the Bright Angel Bicycle Rental and Café ) to full-service dining at places like the Arizona Steakhouse in the Bright Angel Lodge and the El Tovar Dining Room and lounge inside the El Tovar Lodge. You can also pick up groceries at the Canyon Village Market general store.

When the North Rim is open, you’ll find a general store adjacent to the campground as well as a saloon, deli, and full-service dining room in the Grand Canyon Lodge.

Related Articles

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in the Grand Canyon Itinerary

Last Updated on August 24, 2023

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 Grand Canyon itinerary 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 in 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?

One of the first questions that comes up when planning a trip to this stunning National Park is how many days to spend 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 in the Grand Canyon 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 in the Grand Canyon.

This Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon trip, the last day of this itinerary 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 Grand Canyon 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 Days in the Grand Cnyon Itinerary

Whether you are spending 2 days in the Grand Canyon or are planning a 3-day trip, 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 breath-taking 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 2 to 3 days in 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 $160.26 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 in the Grand Canyon were dedicated to learning about the park, exploring some scenic viewpoints, and enjoying beautiful hikes. For those planning a 3-day trip to 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 Grand Canyon, 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.  Click here to see their availability

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!  Click here to see their availability

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 .  Click here to check availability.

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!

Related Posts:

10 Best Stops on the Phoenix to Albuquerque Drive

5-Day Arizona Itinerary: Phoenix to Sedona to Grand Canyon

One Day in Sedona: A Day Trip From Phoenix

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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The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Everything you need to know to fully experience the natural wonder, whether you’re there for one sunset or a weeklong stay..

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One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon has something to offer for every interest and activity level.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

At 278 river miles long and 18 miles across at its widest point, the Grand Canyon is big . So big, in fact, that you could spend a week exploring and barely see one rim (let alone the depths of the canyon). To make it all less overwhelming, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to getting the most out of your first visit, whether you have a day or a week.

Let’s start with the basics: 5 to 6 million years ago, the Colorado River began carving the Grand Canyon out of the Colorado Plateau. Today, the river flows southwest through the Canyon, before reaching Lake Mead on the Arizona-Nevada border. To orient yourself, think of the landscape in terms of the South, North, West, and East Rims, keeping in mind that there’s no way to cross the canyon by car—you have to drive all the way around.

The South Rim is the most popular area of the Grand Canyon, with the greatest number of viewpoints, visitor services, and hotels. More than 1,000 feet higher, the North Rim gets a good deal of snow and closes down from October to May. (Backcountry camping is still available, though a permit is required.) It’s about a 212-mile, four-and-a-half-hour drive from the South Rim, so it’s perhaps best reserved for a separate or extended visit.

Fight vertigo on the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass-bottomed bridge 4,000 feet above the canyon.

Courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism

The West Rim , known as Grand Canyon West, sits on the tribal lands of the Hualapai and includes the Grand Canyon Skywalk , a horseshoe-shaped cantilever bridge with a glass bottom, perfect for conquering that fear of heights. Finally, the East Rim , which is lower in elevation at 4,200 feet, is part of the Navajo Nation and features numerous smaller canyons carved by the Little Colorado River.

Before we dive in deeper, note that not all of the Grand Canyon lies within Grand Canyon National Park . There are 11 federally recognized tribes associated with the canyon, and the Hualapai, Navajo, and Havasupai reservations border the park, so pay attention to their rules and policies. Also keep in mind that the season and weather will play a role in your Grand Canyon planning, with roads, viewpoints, and services subject to closure.

If you only have one day . . .

Most people aiming to see the canyon in one day will prioritize the South Rim, where it’s possible to see and do the most in the least amount of time. You’ll have your sightseeing cut out for you, though, so use the following plan to check all the most important boxes in a short visit.

Start with sunrise

Waking up before dawn will seem well worth it when the first rays make the canyon walls glow gold. Mather Point is a go-to spot to watch sunrises and sunsets, but you can’t go wrong anywhere along the Rim Trail.

See the main South Rim sights

The primary attractions sit in a loop along the rim, connected by a hop-on, hop-off shuttle. If you get the early-morning start suggested above, you can realistically see them all in one day, though most people tend to skip a museum or two. Grand Canyon Visitor Center : Watch an introductory movie, check out the relief map, sit in on a park ranger lecture, and catch the rim shuttle.

The El Tovar Hotel is widely considered the crown jewel of the National Park lodges.

Courtesy of El Tovar Hotel

El Tovar Hotel : Peek into the lobby of one of the grandest of the historic National Park lodges. Hopi House : Tour this 1905 building designed by Mary Colter—one of the first female architects in the United States—to resemble a Pueblo village. It now showcases Navajo and other American Indian arts and crafts. Kolb Studio : Visit the early 20th-century home and studio of pioneering photographers Emery and Ellsworth Kolb to see pictures and antique photo equipment. Verkamp’s Visitor Center : Shop for souvenirs and get your questions answered in this souvenir shop dating to 1906. Yavapai Geology Museum : Learn about the forces that formed the canyon and take in the views at Yavapai Point.

Walk the Trail of Time

A section of the Rim Trail signed with detailed explanations of geological history, the short but worthy Trail of Time helps make sense of the colorful layers that give the canyon walls their candy-stripe appearance.

Located along the South Rim on Hermit Road, Hopi Point is the perfect place to watch the sunset.

Photo by Francisco Blanco/Shutterstock

Explore Hermits Rest and Hopi Point

West of Grand Canyon Village, a series of overlooks along Hermit Road offer some of the canyon’s most beloved views. For the best experience, follow the crowds to Hermits Rest at sunset and watch the rays turn the canyon crimson. When the road is closed to private cars from March 1 through November 30, shuttle buses ferry visitors to nine lookouts, including Mohave and Pima Points and the Abyss—so named because it’s a sheer vertical drop of 3,000 feet.

Drive to Desert View

Alternatively, you could watch the sunset at Desert View. After stopping at a few viewpoints along Hermit Road, take the scenic, 23-mile Desert View Drive , which passes the stunning Grandview Point, Moran Point, and Navajo Point. The route finishes at the Desert View Watchtower, designed by Mary Colter in 1932. From the top, you can see for well over 100 miles on a clear day.

If you have three days . . .

More time means more opportunities to take in the canyon’s variegated walls and gravity-defying formations from different angles and directions.

Hike into the canyon

It’s hard to fully appreciate the depth of the Grand Canyon without going to the bottom and looking up. For campers, the most popular route down is the Bright Angel Trail , which is about five miles one way to Havasupai Gardens , and nine miles to Bright Angel campgrounds. Don’t delay in applying for a backcountry permit because sites fill up fast.

If you’d rather make it a day trip, hike part of the way down to one of the rest houses at one and a half or three miles, then head back up (remember: coming up takes longer than going down) with a far greater appreciation for the canyon’s geological marvels.

More rugged and less crowded—it typically sees a tenth of all park visitors—the North Rim is cooler and covered in forests of aspen, fir, and spruce trees. While snowfall limits the official visitor season to May through October, hikers and cross-country skiers can still access the area during the winter.

Hike into the canyon on the North Kaibab Trail, then spend the night at the Bright Angel Campground.

Photo by Serj Malomuzh/Shutterstock

A favorite activity here is hiking the North Kaibab Trail , which descends 14 miles to the Colorado River and Bright Angel Campground, with memorable views along the way. For something slightly less strenuous, hike the first part of the trail to the Supai Tunnel, four miles round-trip, or book a mule excursion with Canyon Trail Rides .

Visit Grand Canyon West

Just a two-hour drive from Las Vegas, the West Rim has become the second-most popular area of the Grand Canyon, attracting more than 1 million visitors annually. Located outside the national park on the lands of the Hualapai tribe, it’s best known as the site of the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends 70 feet past the edge of the canyon rim. If you don’t mind touristy attractions, walk its length while gazing past your feet to the canyon floor 4,000 feet below. Afterward, keep your adrenaline pumping with a ride on the West Rim Zip Line , or opt to check out the traditional craft studios at Eagle Point instead.

If you have one week . . .

Human beings have been living in and around the Grand Canyon for about 12,000 years, and they’ve been exploring it in myriad ways. The more time you spend in the canyon, the more its marvels reveal themselves to you.

Rafting through the Grand Canyon offers a memorable adventure.

Photo by Jim Malouk/Shutterstock

Hit the water

Ask anyone who has rafted the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon about their experience and you’ll be treated to a story of adventure. Guided trips, ranging from 3 to 18 days, stop at places like Lees Ferry , Phantom Ranch , and Whitmore Wash, navigating distances of up to 226 river miles. Among the many outfitters recommended by the National Park Service, we suggest Oars , Grand Canyon Expeditions , Arizona Raft Adventures , and Arizona River Runners .

Witness Havasupai Falls

The turquoise waters of Havasupai Falls have long inspired adventurers to make the 10-mile trek through the verdant Havasu Canyon, home of the Havasupai tribe. The hike has become so popular, however, that in 2019, the Havasupai imposed strict visitation rules, requiring all visitors to obtain permits through the tribe and stay for at least three nights at their campground or lodge .

Plan ahead and score a permit to see Havasupai Falls.

Photo by Ariene Waller/Shutterstock

Day hiking on the reservation is strictly prohibited, but AirWest Helicopters flies to and from the falls several days of the week (Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday from March 15 to October 15; Sunday and Friday from October 16 to March 14). The 15-minute flights into the canyon leave from a broad shelf below the Havasupai Trailhead parking lot, while return flights depart from an area between the tourism office and café. Flights are first-come, first-served, so it’s best to arrive early. Expect to pay $100 per person one way.

Adventure into the east

Located within the Navajo Nation, the East Rim is the most remote area in the Grand Canyon, with fewer access roads and viewpoints. The most popular attractions here are Antelope and Marble Canyons, as well as Instagram darling Horseshoe Bend , a dramatic viewpoint over the Colorado River. Many road-trippers to the east side head northeast to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area , which encompasses Lake Powell.

Get a bird’s-eye view

Many raptors make their homes in the red rocks. HawkWatch International maintains a counting station at Yaki Point on the South Rim from late August until November, where you might encounter an educational interpreter who is happy to explain migration ecology, raptor identification, and the organization’s efforts to monitor long-term trends in the raptor population. As of Fall 2023, researchers had identified more than 20 species of raptors living in the canyon, including sharp-shinned, Cooper’s, and red-tailed hawks, as well as peregrine falcons and bald eagles.

More tips and tricks

To make things even easier, follow these final pointers.

Enlist the experts

One way to take the pressure off your planning is to get some expert help. The Grand Canyon Conservancy offers a series of guided field adventures that include time to take in the views and learn about the canyon’s geology and ecosystems.

Take a class

Free National Park Service programming like daily Geology Talks at the Yavapai Geology Museum and Fossil Discovery Walks at the Bright Angel Trailhead help you get up to speed quickly, while the Junior Ranger program (available year-round at the South Rim and from May to October at the North Rim) provides kids with a richer experience.

Go by train

Most people drive to the Grand Canyon—and a car is necessary if you plan to visit more than one area along the rim—but a fun, relaxed, scenic alternative is to take the Grand Canyon Railway , which makes daily round-trips between Williams, Arizona, and the Grand Canyon Depot. Featuring vintage rail cars with live music, the train winds through pine forests and across broad meadows, offering views of unsuspecting wildlife along the way. The cowboy characters who bring the Old West to life aboard make the trip particularly fun for children .

This article was originally published in January 2020. It was updated in April 2024 with new information.

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How to Plan an Amazing Arizona Road Trip (7-14 Days)

How were we so late to the Arizona party? Despite both having been to Arizona MULTIPLE TIMES before, we were radically unprepared for the sheer beauty that we experienced over the course of our Arizona road trip. We spent around two weeks in Arizona, and already started making plans for our return. Because there is SO MUCH to do and see in Arizona that it’s honestly a little overwhelming.

We originally had plans to go all over the state, but ended up having to cut our trip a little short. Which turned out to be a good thing, because it forced us to focus in on the things we really wanted to do and see while we were in Arizona.

We used our experience road tripping in Arizona – along with the hours of research that went into planning our own trip – to put together this guide to planning an amazing Arizona adventure.

In it, you’ll find the logistics – when to go, where to fly in, etc etc – along with our favorite stops in Arizona and exactly what to do and see while you’re there.

We think that you should spend your time going deep (or, as deep as you can go with 2-3 days) in each of the stops you make rather than trying to see everything in one trip. The latter approach means you’re spending 4-5 hours a day in the car, which, honestly, sucks.

Instead, spend your time exploring hiking trails, stuffing your face with food and drinks, and seeing some of Arizona’s most spectacular landscapes.

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it.

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%.

How Many Days in Arizona?

Arizona is huge, and if you’re trying to hit all of the different corners of the state, you’ll need at least two weeks .

If you have less than that, we’d strongly recommend focusing your Arizona road trip itinerary on three main areas : Phoenix and the Superstition Mountains, Sedona, and Grand Canyon National Park.

You will need at least seven days – more would be better – to do Phoenix, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon.

We’ve written the road trip itinerary below for seven days, but have suggestions for what to do with extra time that are equally as detailed as the 7 day itinerary below – you can find them at the end of this guide.

• With a few extra days – 10 or so – you can add on Tucson and Saguaro National Park.
• With 14 days, add the southern loop through Tucson , plus Page and Zion National Park , ending your time by flying out of Vegas. 

Monument Valley, which is spectacular, is FAR from most of the places on this itinerary. For example, it’ll take you three to four hours to get there from the Grand Canyon.

Other than the drive, which is beautiful, there’s nothing else to really do there, so we don’t think it really makes sense to take a huge detour to get there . In fact, it would be a better addition to a broader Arizona / Utah road trip on your way to Moab .

Instead, we’d STRONGLY recommend focusing your time on the corridor between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon, immersing yourself in the spectacular landscapes along the way rather than spending all day in the car.

Where to Start and End Your Arizona Road Trip

For most people, a loop that starts and ends in Phoenix, Arizona is going to be the best way to do this road trip.

Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which generally has a good selection of flights from around the country (and even the world, in some cases). Click here to check flight prices into Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport for your dates.

The benefit of doing this as a loop is that you won’t have to pay a one-way rental car fee.

From the furthest points on the itinerary below – either Page or the Grand Canyon South Rim – it’s about a four hour drive back to the airport.

Plan on booking the earliest possible flight into Phoenix, and the latest possible flight out to maximize your time.

Note : The exception to doing this as a loop is if you have 14 days and decide to add on Zion National Park at the end. Then, it would actually be better to end in Las Vegas – about two and a half hours or 172 miles from Zion.

Do You Need to Rent a Car for this Road Trip?

In short, yes. You’ll need to rent a car for the entirety of this itinerary. We’d recommend picking up and dropping off at the same place – Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix – to avoid a one-way rental car fee if you can. 

We like using Kayak for booking rental cars because they aggregate all the different car rental sites to help you find the best price. Make sure to rent from a reputable company – Hertz, Enterprise, National, or Avis, which you can do by using Kayak’s helpful filters.  Cl i ck here to check prices for rental cars in Phoenix.

A Complete 7 Day Itinerary for a Road Trip in Arizona

Now that we’ve got all the logistics out of the way, time to get into the exact itinerary we’d recommend. 

Day 1: Fly in and Explore Phoenix

A lot of people pick up their rental car and head straight for either Sedona or Tucson, depending on what route you’re taking.

However, we think there are a few things to do in Phoenix that are well worth a day of your time.

We’d spend your first day, night, and second day in the Phoenix area, focusing on the many outdoor activities nearby, most notably the Superstition Mountains, which were a highlight of our Arizona trip. Then, on your second night, head up to Sedona and sleep there so you can get an early start the next morning.

What to Do in Phoenix

There are a couple of things worth doing in Phoenix itself on your first day in Arizona – we’ll cover the Superstition Mountains on day 2 of this itinerary.

• The Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park is worth a stop to see all sorts of desert flora – over 50,000 different kinds! There are multiple loops that take you on a journey through the plant life of the Sonoran desert, which will give you a great foundation for the rest of your trip (“Hey Alysha! It’s a teddy bear cholla cactus!”).
• Speaking of Papago Park, Hole in the Wall is a short climb that takes you to a perfect spot to take in your first Arizona sunset! Unlike places on the west coast, there’s no marine layer or clouds in the sky to ruin the evening glow – sunsets in Arizona are spectacular.
• There are a surprising number of great hikes within 45 minutes of Phoenix. Camelback Mountain is seemingly right in the middle of town, and gives you sweeping views of the surrounding area from the summit, which is reached with a 2.5 mile out-and-back trail that is basically straight up. Tom’s Thumb is another great hike that takes you to a saddle with panoramic views – it’s a little further out to the north of town, but is worth the journey in our opinion.
• Get coffee at Cartel Coffee Lab , who has the best coffee in Phoenix (in our opinion, anyway) and has created a mini empire in southern Arizona.

Where to Stay in Phoenix

We were walking through Uptown Phoenix on our way to Cartel Coffee – some of the best coffee in Phoenix – when we found ourselves in the courtyard of a hip-looking hotel.

That hotel was Rise Uptown , and we wish we would have stayed there. It’s a great location for exploring Phoenix, and the rooms are spacious and beautiful. Plus, there’s a nice pool, and Cartel Coffee is essentially in the lobby. 

In general, we’d recommend staying somewhere between Downtown and uptown, between the two highways that run north-south (51 and 17).

Here are a couple of other good choices in Phoenix.

• Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix : Great value with bright-colored rooms and charming décor. Plus, it’s super affordable! It’s also near the freeway that you’ll take out to the Superstitions, which puts you in a great location for exploring.
• Aloft Phoenix Airport : Location is nothing special, but it’s convenient for the airport, and it’s an affordable choice with nice rooms and a pool.
• The AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore : A little more on the boutique end of the spectrum, this hotel is beautiful, and is well-located in the Biltmore area of Phoenix, which is a perfect home base for exploring the city and surrounding area.

Day 2: Day Trip to the Superstition Mountains

Stay in Phoenix for the night, and head out early to the east, where you’ll find the Superstition Wilderness, a highlight of our time in Arizona. You can explore most of the main part of the western end of the park in a morning, which is exactly what you’re going to do here.

Head to Lost Dutchman State Park , which will be your base for exploring, and park at either the Treasure Loop or Siphon Draw Trailheads . There’s a day use fee of $10 to enter the park.

There are a couple of established hikes in the park, but we created our own by putting together multiple hikes into one big loop.

Start with the eastern part of the Treasure Loop Trail , which winds its way up to the ridge. From there, rather than heading back down via the Treasure Loop Trail, take the Prospector’s Ridge Trail to the west until it intersects with the Siphon Draw Trail . From that intersection, take the Jacob’s Crosscut trail back to the trailhead.

All-in, it’ll be around four miles, and you’ll see the Superstition Mountains and a ton of desert flora and fauna along the way.

On your way back into Phoenix, stop in Mesa, Arizona for a couple of our favorite spots in the Phoenix Metro Area. 

• Get coffee at Mythical Coffee , which is actually in Gilbert, but is roughly on the way. This is the best coffee in the Phoenix area, we think. An alternative would be Peixoto Coffee , which we like because they own a coffee farm in Brazil (or more accurately, are owned by a family who also owns a coffee farm in Brazil) and highlight the coffees from their farm in their shop. 
• Need to refuel post-hike? There are two great gluten free spots in Mesa, which we’d recommend whether you have Celiac Disease (like me) or not. First is Spooky Swirls , a cupcake shop (they make all sorts of baked goods) that makes fun, themed cupcakes that are not only beautiful, but they’re also delicious. We got a Baby Yoda cupcake (see below), that didn’t quite survive the Arizona heat, but was delicious either way. The second spot is Intentional Foods Cafe , which is a 100% gluten free restaurant that is also free of eight other allergens, so it’s perfect if you or any of your traveling companions have food sensitivities. Get the donuts and the fries. 
• Last, but certainly not least, head up to Cider Corps , a veteran-owned cidery in Mesa to try some local cider. I believe (I could be wrong) that they are Phoenix’s only cider bar! They have a nice outdoor patio if it’s cool enough, otherwise they have a high-ceilinged, light-filled indoor space. Plus, CIDER SLUSHIES! You can bring outside food, so we’d recommend grabbing lunch and heading here to eat and sip on some cider. 

Days 3 & 4: Sedona

Drive Time from Phoenix: 2 hours / 115 miles

Sedona is gorgeous. We did Sedona and Zion on the same trip (see our recommendations for 14 days below to see how we did it), and in a lot of ways, they’re very similar. You’ll find red rock walls and towering buttes with lush greenery in the canyons below.

Another thing that makes them similar? The crowds.

We were in Sedona in April, and it was a zoo. Think hundreds of cars parked at the most popular trailheads, and roads to trailheads closed because the trailhead is full.

Still, it’s a beautiful place, and as long as you know what you’re getting into before you get there, you’ll enjoy your visit.

What to Do in Sedona

Sedona, like Bend, Oregon, is an outdoor lover’s paradise. There’s all sorts of fantastic hikes (psst! We have a guide to our favorite hikes in Sedona ), 4×4 offroading, areas to spend a summer day lounging at the river, and more. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Sedona.

Crescent Moon Picnic Area : At this park on the south side of town, you’ll have some of the best views of Cathedral Rock that you’ll find anywhere in Sedona. Plus, there’s a river, so bring a picnic, a blanket and some towels, your swimsuit, and make an afternoon of it. 

Drink Mind-blowing Chai at the Chai Spot : This was unexpected. As I was scrolling Google Maps getting myself oriented, I realized that there was a chai shop in Sedona called the Chai Spot . Not only do they make INCREDIBLE chai (get the butter chai, it’s creamy and rich and delicious), but their story is worth looking into as well. It’s a social project that focuses on economic empowerment of women and education of children in Pakistan. The inside of the shop is colorful and vibrant, and the outdoor patio is a welcome refuge from the heat – it’s the perfect spot for chai lovers (like Alysha) to relax in Sedona. 

Hiking in Sedona: There are an incredible number of great hikes in Sedona. So many, that we have a whole separate post highlighting the best hikes in Sedona – if you want to spend most of your time on the hiking trails, you should absolutely go read that. We really enjoyed the West Fork of Oak Creek , which is a beautiful meander through a lush canyon with towering red rock walls. You cross the river 13 times, but none of the crossings are particularly hard, especially if you have waterproof shoes on. The Boynton Canyon Trail and Soldier Pass Trail were our next two picks, though you need to read our hiking guide to figure out the parking situation for Soldier Pass, which is a bonafide nightmare. Devils Bridge is cool, but you’ll probably have to wait in line at the top for a picture, which isn’t our cup of tea. 

Sunset Spots: Arizona sunsets are amazing. Catch sunset at Airport Mesa , which is one of the most popular spots (there were literally hundreds of people there when we were there) or the top of Cathedral Rock , which requires a steep hike to reach. Another good option that should be less crowded is Bell Rock . Make the climb about halfway up the south side of the towering rock formation and find a nice spot to relax and watch the sun dip below the horizon. It’ll light up the red rocks of the valley in front of you as it does. 

Wine Tasting: I bet you didn’t expect to see wine tasting on an itinerary for Arizona, did you? The Verde Valley Wine Trail is just outside of Sedona, in nearby Cottonwood and Corndale (~30 minutes from Sedona by car) and a trip out there would make for a great afternoon activity after a morning hike. Head to Oak Creek Vineyards for wine flights and small plates (also dog + kid friendly!), or Arizona Stronghold Vineyards (no reservations, tables are first-come-first-served) for a delightfully rustic tasting experience just outside of Cottonwood. If you don’t want to make the journey out of town, head to Art of Wine in Sedona and get a flight of the Arizona reds or whites, depending on what you’re into. 

Where to Stay in Sedona

There are a couple of options in Sedona in terms of style and budget. You could stay in a hotel or resort, which will give you a nice refuge from the heat if you’re visiting in the summertime (or the cold if it’s winter or early spring). Or, you could camp at one of the campgrounds along 89A just north of Sedona. 

Hotels in Sedona

If you’re looking to stay in a hotel, you’ve got a pretty impressive number of options. 

We like Sky Ranch Lodge , which is walkable to the best sunset spot in the area at Airport Mesa. It’s where we’d stay if we were planning a trip to Sedona and weren’t living in our van.

They have a beautiful, lush property that has a patio with a great view of Sedona, and rooms are spacious. Plus, they’re certified sustainable by the Sustainability Alliance of Arizona!

Plus, a free shuttle to areas within five miles of the hotel means you won’t have to deal with parking at some of the most popular trailheads like the Soldier Pass Trail (though you should be careful, because cell-service is nonexistent in some parts of Sedona). It’s also walkable from the airport, which is a nice bonus if you’re flying in. 

The other spot we’d recommend looking at is Junipine Resort , which is along 89A north of town and offers a quieter, more private place to stay. We drove past it on our way to our campground and were intrigued. Sure enough, it looks like an amazing place to stay!

It’s along the banks of Oak Creek, they’re certified sustainable, and they have “Creekhomes” that have plenty of space and a full kitchen. It’s only 10-15 minutes outside of Sedona, and is perfect if you’re in search of a bit of tranquility, which you might not find if you’re staying in downtown Sedona. 

Camping in Sedona

If you want to camp, there are a bunch of campgrounds north of Sedona along Highway 89A. We’ll cover three of them, starting with the closest to Sedona and ending with one that’s about 15-20 minutes outside of town that we stayed at and really liked. 

Manzanita Campground : Right along the creek in a nice shady spot, this is the closest campground to town, which also means it’s the most competitive. There are only 18 sites, 11 of which are reservable in advance. Seven sites are first-come-first-served, so plan on getting there early in the day to secure a spot. More info here . 

Cave Springs Campground: With 84 sites, this is the biggest campground in the area. You must make reservations in advance (at least three days before you show up), and there’s usually availability (though we’d recommend grabbing a spot well in advance for the month of April, which is high season in Sedona). More info here .  

Pine Flat Campground : This is the one we stayed at, and 18 of the 54 sites here are reservable in advance. It’s a nice campground, though it is right along the road (though all of them are, really). Try to get a site on the side of the campground that’s along Oak Creek – that’s on the west side of the road, and the west side of the campground (look at a map and you’ll see what I mean). More info here . 

Days 5 & 6: The Grand Canyon

Drive Time from Sedona: 2 hours / 115 miles

We think 2 days in the Grand Canyon is the perfect amount of time to explore the rim, take the scenic drive out to the East Entrance of the park and Desert View, and do one of the difficult but spectacular hikes that take you below the rim.

There’s plenty to do and see to fill a few more days if you have extra time on this road trip and you’re particularly interested in the Grand Canyon – like the North Rim, or backpacking to the floor of the canyon – but we think your time is actually better spent elsewhere unless you’re up for a long drive around to the North Rim, or a long overnight backpacking trip.

So spend a couple of days exploring the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, which is plenty of time to see the highlights.

What to Do in Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

Like we mentioned above, there are three things we think are “must-do” at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

• Hike the Rim Trail : All along the Rim Trail, you’ll have spectacular and ever-changing views of the vastness of the canyon below. We like the stretch from Mather Point to the Bright Angel Trailhead, which is a 3.1 mile hike that is mostly flat with plenty of viewpoints along the way. Don’t miss Mather Point , Yavapai Point , and the Yavapai Geology Museum . This hike is best done in the early morning before 10am, which is when the crowds start to show up, or within an hour of sunset for stunning light on the canyon.
• Scenic Drive out to Desert View : This drive is amazing, with about a half-dozen viewpoints that are worth stopping at along the way. You’ll have a different perspective on the canyon from the eastern end, and it’s the only part of the rim road that you can drive in a private vehicle (except between December and February, when the road out to Hermit’s Rest is open to private vehicles). Start two hours before sunset, stopping at the viewpoints along the way, and ending at Desert View to take in the usually-stunning Arizona sunset.
• Get below the Canyon Rim : Like Bryce Canyon , one of our favorite national parks in the United States, the best way to really get a feel for the Grand Canyon is to hike down into it. You’re sure to appreciate the scale of the canyon if you have to make the climb up the canyon walls, gaining several thousand feet over the course of your journey! The two most popular trails are the South Kaibab Trail and the Bright Angel Trail. The Bright Angel Trail is more of a way to get all the way to the canyon floor, which you won’t be able to do in a day hike. We’d recommend taking the South Kaibab Trail out to Skeleton Point , which is 6 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 2,000 feet on the way back. Shorten it to 3 miles / 1,100 feet by turning around at Cedar Point instead.

The hikes below the rim are not for the faint of heart – you’ll need to be prepared with plenty of water, sun protection, and salty snacks.

The interior of the canyon is often 20+ degrees hotter than the rim, which means you’re going to be at risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration, particularly in the summer months. Do not underestimate the difficulty of these hikes.

It’s probably better to underestimate your abilities rather than overestimating them, in this case.

Where to Stay in the Grand Canyon

There are three places we’d recommend staying on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, and it largely depends on your budget and style.

If you’re camping, stay at Mather Campground , which is within walking distance (~1 mile one-way) of the main Visitors Center and the Marketplace. We stayed here and although it’s a massive campground, it’s relatively nice with flush toilets, shaded sites, and good water. Honestly, we were surprised at how nice it was.

Staying inside the park on the Rim is a great option, but like most national parks, you’re going to pay a little extra for the convenience of having the Grand Canyon literally out your front door (in most cases). Along the rim, the best options are going to be El Tovar Hotel , the Bright Angel Lodge , and the Maswik Lodge .

Staying outside of the south entrance of the park (which is the best place to stay outside the park), is going to be cheaper, but means a little bit of a journey to get to the rim of the canyon, and often a line at the park entrance (though, not if you get there early enough!).

We’d recommend looking in the town of Tusayan (15 minutes from the rim), which is just outside the South Entrance, or Grand Canyon Junction (30 minutes to the rim), which has a better selection of places to stay, but is a little further out. Here are three places to check out:

• Under Canvas Grand Canyon (Grand Canyon Junction): Bucket list-worthy glamping! If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, check out their safari tents in the desert.
• Red Feather Lodge (Tusayan): Located a few minutes from the entrance to the park, this is a solid value with simple rooms in a perfect location. Plus, relatively affordable!
• Holiday Inn Express or Best Western Premier (Tusayan): Two well-rated, good value hotels just outside the south entrance. Not a whole lot of bells and whistles here, but a pleasant place to use as a home base for exploring the Grand Canyon.

Williams and Flagstaff will have you driving for an hour (or more) each way to and from the rim of the Grand Canyon, and we wouldn’t recommend staying there if you can avoid it.

Day 7: Drive to Phoenix & Fly Home

The drive back to Phoenix is going to take you about four hours from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Plan on booking an afternoon / evening flight to give yourself plenty of time for the drive back.

Longer Itinerary Options (10 & 14 Days)

If you have a full 10 days or even two weeks, you’ll unlock more possibilities for your trip.

Here’s how we would spend 10 days and 14 days in Arizona.

How to Spend 10 Days in Arizona

With 10 days, we think you should add on Tucson and Saguaro National Park on the front end of your road trip, and Page, Arizona on the tail end after the Grand Canyon.

For this version of the itinerary, pick up your rental car in Phoenix and head south to Tucson, where you’ll spend the first 2-3 days. Then, continue on the road trip above as written. On the second-to-last day, head up to Page.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Day 1: Fly into Phoenix, drive to Tucson
• Day 2: Tucson / Saguaro National Park
• Day 3: Tucson / Saguaro National Park
• Day 4: Drive to Phoenix, afternoon in Phoenix
• Day 5: Superstition Mountains, drive to Sedona
• Day 6: Sedona
• Day 7: Sedona + Drive to Grand Canyon
• Day 8: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 9: Grand Canyon National Park + Drive to Page
• Day 10: Page + Drive to Phoenix + Head Home

Tucson and Saguaro National Park

Southern Arizona is a vastly different landscape than northern Arizona, which is what the 7 day itinerary above focuses on. With more time, you’ll be able to dip your toes in the southern Arizona water (just kidding, this is the desert!), but you won’t be able to see it all.

For your introduction to southern Arizona, we think you should focus on the area around Tucson.

What to Do in Tucson

There are two main focuses for your time in Tucson – Saguaro National Park (there are two parts!) and Mt. Lemmon .

Saguaro National Park

First, you should know that there are two parts of Saguaro National Park that straddle Tucson, one on either side. They are the Rincon Mountain District , which is on the east side of Tucson, and the Tucson Mountain District to the west. 

Stop at the Visitor Center in each part of the park to grab a map, fill up your water, and get ready to explore. There is nowhere to get food or drinks other than water within the park, so you’ll want to pack a lunch and plenty of snacks. 

Here are some things to do in each region of the park. 

In the Tucson Mountain District, which is smaller in area but has a higher density of cacti and is therefore more popular: 

• Drive the 5 mile Bajada Loop scenic drive , which is a loop consisting of Golden Gate Road and Hohokam Road. It’s unpaved, but is passable by all vehicles. Drive it counterclockwise, starting with Hohokam road and ending on Golden Gate. This is a great way to explore the park, especially if you make stops at the Valley View Overlook Trail (extend it a bit by combining it with the Wild Dog Trail ) to get up close and personal with a ton of cacti, and the Signal Hill area, where you’ll find petroglyphs at the top of the hill. 
• If you’re looking for a longer hike , do the hike up to Wasson Peak either from the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead (7.5 miles / 1,600 feet of elevation) or via the Hugh Norris Trailhead (8.9 miles / 2,400 feet of elevation gain). 
• Stop at the Red Hills Visitor Center to walk the short loop through the cactus garden and pick up some maps and park information. 
• The Desert Discovery Center , which is outside the park’s southern boundary, is worth a stop either on the way in or out to learn about all the flora and fauna in the desert. 

In the Rincon Mountain District, which is the bigger but less popular part of the park on the east side of Tucson (If you only have time for one, we’d recommend the Tucson Mountain District. However, if you have time for both, this section of the park makes for a nice combination with Mt. Lemmon, since there’s only really about a half day worth of things to do and see here.):

• The number one thing you should do is drive Cactus Forest Loop Drive , which is a huge loop that takes you through the majority of the park. It is paved, and well worth the time. Stop at the Freeman Homestead Nature Trail , the Loma Verde Trail (do a loop with the Squeeze Pen Trail for a nice stroll through the desert), and the Cactus Forest Overlook . 
• If you’re looking for a longer hike, there are a bunch of great options leaving from the Broadway Trailhead at the northwest corner of the park and the Douglas Spring Trailhead along the northern boundary. 

Then, head to Mt. Lemmon for a completely different perspective on Tucson and the surrounding area. 

At 9,159 feet above sea level, Mt. Lemmon is a completely different place than Tucson. It’s likely going to be 20-30 degrees cooler, which means different ecosystems thrive here on the highest peak in the Santa Catalina Mountains. 

To put it in perspective, the average high temperature in July in Tucson is 100 degrees F. On Mt. Lemmon, it’s 76 degrees. 

Would you believe me if I told you there’s a SKI RESORT on Mt. Lemmon?

You should definitely drive all the way to the top – Summerhaven. It’s 26 miles, and the landscape gradually shifts over the course of the journey. At the top, you’ll be in the woods. In Arizona. Which is an odd feeling when just an hour or two ago you were driving through Saguaro National Park, home of a bazillion cacti. 

Stop by Windy Point Vista and San Pedro Vista on the way up for great views of the surrounding area. 

There’s a bunch of things to do and see in the town of Summerhaven at the top, whether you want to hike or just peruse shops, but we think the drive itself is by far the best part about Mt. Lemmon.

If you’re looking for a great, relatively easy hike, head out to the Mt. Lemmon Fire Lookout Station. It’s 2.1 miles round trip with 360 feet of elevation gain, and you can make a nice loop of it by returning via the Meadow trail. 

Where to Stay in Tucson

There are exactly zero campgrounds to stay at in Tucson, so your only options are going to be hotels and vacation rentals. Since you have two nights, you have your choice between staying in a hotel, which will provide more convenience and flexibility but less space, and vacation rentals, which give you more space and usually a kitchen, but less flexibility.

If you’re looking for a hotel, stay at Hotel McCoy , a cool hotel on the outskirts of town that’s perfect for exploring Saguaro National Park, or the Tuxon or the Graduate Hotel , which are both closer in to town and the amenities in Tucson.

Page, Arizona: Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

Page is a good home base for exploring two now Insta-famous sights in Arizona: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend .

I know Page as the jumping off point for renting a houseboat on Lake Powell, which my family has done twice now. Other than those three things, there’s not a whole lot going on, which makes it a perfect half-day addition after the Grand Canyon.

We’d recommend leaving the Grand Canyon on the afternoon of your last day to make it to Horseshoe Bend for sunset. Keep in mind, you’ll be with hundreds of your new closest friends – it’s a popular spot. You’ll need to get there early if you want a prime location.

Then, the next morning, get up early and head to Antelope Canyon . It’s on Navajo land, and is only accessible via guided tours, which take between one and a half to two hours. Grab an early 8am departure, which will give you plenty of time to head back to Phoenix afterwards and catch your flight home (or start the drive home, if you drove).

Where to Stay in Page

Stay at the Desert Canyon Inn , which is where we had booked a room before we had to cut our trip a bit short. They have basic apartments – complete with kitchens! – in a perfect location in downtown Page.

What to Do in Arizona With 14 Days

With a full two weeks, you’ve got options. At a high level, you could either make a big loop, including Monument Valley and Page, or you could tack on Zion National Park at the end of your trip, and fly out of Vegas.

For this itinerary, head south to Tucson first, then spend two days in Phoenix before heading up to Sedona, on to the Grand Canyon, then to Page for a night before heading to Zion National Park, which is technically in Utah, but close enough, right?

Note that we’re skipping Petrified Forest National Park and Monument Valley. It’s not that they aren’t cool and worth seeing. It’s that we think you’re better served focusing on western Arizona here, and making a return trip to explore eastern Arizona. 

Otherwise, you’ll spend WAY too much time driving – and those drives are not particularly scenic, though there are some nice spots along the way – and not enough time actually exploring. 

For reference, it’s going to take you four and a half hours to go from Tucson to Petrified Forest National Park, another three or more hours to go from there to Monument Valley, and another two hours to get to Page. All in the span of about 36 hours, because there’s really not that much to do along that route. 

We think your time is better spent immersing yourself in Tucson, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon (and Zion). Some might disagree, but that’s our perspective. 

Here’s what that itinerary looks like:

• Day 3: Tucson / Saguaro National Park + Mt. Lemmon
• Day 4: Phoenix
• Day 5: Superstition Mountains (sleep in Phoenix)
• Day 7: Sedona
• Day 8: Sedona + Drive to Grand Canyon in evening
• Day 9: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 10: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 11: Page (Antelope Canyon morning + Horseshoe Bend sunset)
• Day 12: Drive to Zion
• Day 13: Zion 
• Day 14: Drive to Vegas and Fly Home (stop at Valley of Fire if you have time)

Wondering what to do in Zion National Park? We’ve got you covered. 

• How to Plan a Perfect Zion National Park Itinerary
• Where to Stay at Zion National Park

The Best Time to Road Trip in Arizona

Essentially, we’d say “anytime other than the summer.” But ideally spring and fall – March and April, and September and October being the best months.

We spent three weeks on this road trip in the spring in April, and it was very, very pleasant. In Phoenix, it’s still going to be warm, but not unbearable just yet – think 80’s and 90’s during the day. In higher elevation Sedona and the Grand Canyon, it’ll be slightly cooler, even downright cold in the Grand Canyon at night.

In the fall , it’s going to be similar, with relatively warm temperatures in Phoenix and southern Arizona that start to cool off as you head north into the higher elevation parts of the state.

The winter is also a decent time to visit, particularly in southern Arizona (Phoenix and Tucson). However, you could run into snow in Sedona and the Grand Canyon, which can put a damper on your trip.

Summer in Arizona is going to be borderline unbearable, with temperatures regularly over 100 degrees, and huge crowds of people – particularly families with kids out of school – flocking to places like the Grand Canyon. You’ll need to book things well in advance if you visit during the summer, and be prepared for incredibly hot weather.

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.

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12 things you need to know before visiting Grand Canyon National Park

Mar 30, 2024 • 5 min read

Stay safe and be ready for the Grand Canyon with these top tips © Andrew Peacock / Getty Images

Bigger than the US state of Rhode Island and large enough to influence the weather, Grand Canyon National Park can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.

Millions make a special effort to visit the park each year but some don't account for the blistering desert heat, sporadic monsoons, trail safety along a whopping 595 miles of hiking routes, or the need to reserve accommodations ahead of time. 

To make your trip successful, you need to get the little things right. Here's everything you need to know before embarking on an adventure to Grand Canyon National Park.

Narrow down those hiking options with our guide to the 5 best routes in the Grand Canyon

1. Start early or late to avoid the huge crowds

The Grand Canyon National Park is the second most-visited national park in the USA , attracting nearly 6 million people annually. Peak hours are 10am to 4pm, which means busier trails and packed attractions, particularly in Grand Canyon Village . For a more tranquil adventure, either start early or late. Those who opt for a later-in-the-day schedule should prioritize a sunset at the likes of Pima Point , Mohave Point , or Hopi Point .

2. Make use of the free South Rim shuttle bus

While the South Rim Trail is well-paved and provides some 13 miles of canyon vistas, sometimes you need a reprieve. The park runs a free shuttle bus that stops at many of the major sights, from the Hermits Rest in the west all the way to Yaki Point in the east. 

The shuttle also stops at some of the canyon’s most popular lodging destinations, too – including Maswik Lodge , El Tovar Hotel , and Yavapai Lodge – making it a seamless, car-free way to get around.

3. Book park accommodation six months in advance

Whether staying at a Grand Canyon Village hotel, like Thunderbird Lodge or Kachina Lodge , or deep within the canyon at Phantom Ranch , you’ll need to book well in advance. Reservations for in-park options typically open six months ahead of time and they are snatched up quickly. The Grand Canyon National Park Lodges website is the central hub for all park lodge reservations.

4. Apply in advance for a backcountry permit if you plan to camp

If you’re camping overnight in Grand Canyon National Park, you’ll likely need a backcountry permit . These cost $10 per permit, plus $12 per night and can be applied for in an online lottery . The exceptions include stays at Mather Campground and Desert View Campground , plus mid-May to mid-October stays at the North Rim Campground .

5. No dogs are allowed in the canyon

Leashed dogs are welcome to take in the canyon vistas above the rim – but that’s it. No pets are permitted into the canyon itself, including hiking trails. The rules are strictly enforced, too. So, if you’re planning to hit the Grandview Trail or a journey to Ooh Aah Point , avoid a headache and leave your four-legged friends at home.

Ready to go? Here are the best times to visit the Grand Canyon

6. Arrive early for parking (especially if you have an RV)

There are four parking lots at the South Rim Visitor Center Plaza, the starting point for most Grand Canyon visits. However, it’s not uncommon for the lots to fill up before noon, especially during holiday weekends. Only one of the four lots (Lot 1, near Mather Point) has RV parking. 

Beyond the visitor center, trailhead parking lots are typically smaller, such as the one at Shoshone Point . For RVs, your only other options are Market Plaza and the Backcountry Office. 

7. Pack sunscreen and water – you will need both

Preparation will either make or break your Grand Canyon National Park trip. Some of the park's most popular hikes, like The South Kaibab Trail, do not have water stations en route. Bring more than enough to stay hydrated amid the desert heat. 

Pack sun protective gear and sunscreen, too. Even during the sunniest and cloudiest days, the rays tend to sneak up on the unsuspecting. Prepare for hot weather in July and August. Temperatures have previously gone above 120°F (49°C).

8. Ditch the car to visit the North Rim in winter

The South Rim may get all the love, but the lesser-visited  North Rim boasts remote trails and  a stone-draped lodge . Although the North Rim roads close from December 1 and May 15, due to the snow and ice, the area is still open to adventurous hikers, skiers, and snowshoers. Backcountry permits for the North Rim are available year-round.

9. Keep an eye on the weather during inner-canyon hikes

Monsoon season in Arizona is July to mid-September, but strong storms can occur all year round. There doesn’t need to be an immediate storm or several inches of rain to generate life-threatening floods at Grand Canyon National Park, particularly at the inner canyon. Storms from dozens of miles away have led to the loss of life here, so keep a vigilant eye on the weather.

10. Respect the guardrails (and the unguarded steep cliffs, too) 

Although many of the viewpoints along the South Rim Trail have safety guardrails and fencing, the bulk of the park doesn't. While it may be tempting to get that unhindered photo, do not step beyond the guardrails and be aware of cliff edges. In general – rails or not – it is wise to stay at least six feet away from any Grand Canyon ledge.

11. Don't throw anything in the canyon

Throwing anything into the canyon can cause a major headache. A mile deep in spots, the tiniest of objects thrown from the rim can seriously injure hikers, animals and the park’s fauna below. Don’t take anything from the canyon either, it’s a delicate ecosystem.

12. Give the Canyon's animals space

The Grand Canyon is full of cuddly-looking animals like bighorn sheep, ringtail cats, and mountain lions. They're all wild creatures and you should not pet them. Things can quickly turn dangerous. 

13. Uphill travelers have the right of way

The park’s busiest trails, such as the  Bright Angel Trail , are the total opposite of a secluded experience. At peak times, trails can swell with selfie-pausers, fast-paced hikers, and everyone in between. To keep traffic moving, always give uphill travelers the right of way. And, if you are passing anyone, whether in the heart of a rocky switchback or along a flat stretch, vocalize it for everyone’s safety.

This article was first published Mar 14, 2023 and updated Mar 30, 2024.

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Grand Canyon National Park   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Piriya Photography | Getty Images

Best Times To Visit Grand Canyon National Park

The best times to visit the Grand Canyon are March through May and September through November, when daytime temperatures are cool and crowds are thin. If you decide to visit during the summer (the park's peak season), be prepared for hordes of tourists and very limited lodging availability. You can find deals on hotels during the winter, but much of the park (including the entire  North Rim ) closes after the first snowfall. The South Rim is open throughout the year.

Weather in Grand Canyon National Park

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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Popular Times to Visit Grand Canyon National Park

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

Explore More of Grand Canyon National Park

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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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More Things To See And Do In Arizona Besides The Grand Canyon

Arizona is home to some of the most scenic landscapes in the country, and it's a great destination year-round. The Grand Canyon alone would be an excellent reason to visit Arizona, but the estate offers many other incredible sites. Travelers can find perfect campsites , vibrant cities, ghost towns, national parks, and ancient tribal lands.

It's an excellent place for adventure lovers, where they can find endless activities, and also for people who want to slow down and relax. For travelers dreaming about Arizona, here are the best things to do.

UPDATE: 2023/01/20 16:46 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Arizona is one of the most stunning states to discover in the United States. While the most famous attraction is the Grand Canyon, the state is bursting with plenty of things to see and do. This list was updated and expanded with more things to put on one's Arizona bucket list.

15 Explore Antelope Canyon And More

The Grand Canyon is arguably the most famous canyon on earth, but people visiting Arizona have the chance to explore other incredible spots. When visiting the state, travelers should consider visiting Antelope, a slot canyon inside a Navajo territory . There are many tours to explore this area, and visitors can only access the place with a guided hike.

Arizona features other worth-visiting canyons, including Walnut Canyon, Paria Canyon, and Oak Creek Canyon. In Central Arizona, travelers can also find the Verde Canyon and Northeastern Arizona is home to Canyon de Chelly.

• Accommodation: Red Rock Retreat
• Amenities: Air-Conditioned, Washing Machine, Kitchen

RELATED: 10 Things You Can Skip When Visiting The Grand Canyon

14 Plan A Great Weekend At Sedona

Sedona is famous for its four vortexes, which are places with reportedly healing properties . Beyond spirituality, this region attracts thousands of tourists thanks to its unique red walls and many hikes suitable for beginners and experienced hikers. The place has some incredible hotels with panoramic views and easy access to trails. It's also excellent for stargazing.

The city center features many shops, restaurants, spas, and galleries. Sedona is a perfect destination for travelers looking for adventure, spirituality, or just relaxing for a few days.

• Accommodation: Arabella Hotel Sedona
• Address: 725 Highway 179 Sedona, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Amenities: Fitness Center, Restaurant, Free WiFi

13 Have A Glimpse Of The Wild West

Travelers can go back in time and visit an 1880s Old West town in the south of Phoenix. Rawhide has recreated the Wild West atmosphere, including old-time gunfights, real camel rides, a haunted hotel, trampoline bungee jumping, and a mechanical bull. It's an excellent place to visit with children, but adults can also expect a great time.

The Rawhide Steakhouse and Saloon is praised among visitors for its appetizers. The western-style menu features steaks, barbeque, and prime rib.

• Accommodation: Best Western Plus Chandler Hotel & Suites
• Address: 7101 West Sundust Road, Chandler, AZ 85226
• Amenities: Indoor Pool, Fitness Center, Free WiFi

12 Hike On Less Visited Trails

Hiking is one of Arizona's most popular activities, and some trails receive lots of tourists. Visitors can also have a great time by choosing overlooked paths, where they are likely to encounter fewer tourists. The Bear Mountains is a less-known trail in Sedona, and it offers a panoramic view of Red Rock Country, Jerome, and the San Francisco Peaks.

The Arizona National Scenic Trail stretches over 800 miles and has 40 trails. Adventurous travelers can also check the Hell's Gate Trail, where hikers must go through a pine forest and cross a canyon.

• Accommodation: Enchantment Resort
• Address: 525 Boynton Canyon Road, Sedona, AZ 86336
• Amenities: Outdoor Pool, Spa and Wellness Center, Restaurant

11 Have Fun At The Salt River

The Salt River stretches over miles and is one of Arizona's largest rivers. It is located in the Tonto National Forest and is very popular among locals - especially during the summer when large groups bring speakers and coolers to spend the day.

The most popular activities in the area are tubing the Lower Salt River and kayaking. Visitors will likely encounter many wild horses, making the day even more memorable. As it's nestled in a national forest, visitors must pay an $8 fee to access the place.

• Accommodation: Courtyard Scottsdale Salt River
• Address: 5201 North Pima Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85250
• Amenities: Outdoor Pool, Fitness Center, Restaurant

RELATED: Nature's Best: 10 Natural World Heritage Sites Of The US

10 Enjoy The Lake Saguaro

The gorgeous Lake Saguaro is a reservoir on the Salt River, and canyon walls surround it. The place features many recreational activities, including a scenic riverboat cruise. The Desert Belle is a 90-minute boat tour where visitors can explore the area and learn more about the lake.

Lake Saguaro has a marina where visitors can find many shops that arrange water activities, such as boating, kayaking, sailing, skiing, and jet skiing. It's also excellent for fishing and hiking.

• Accommodation: Best Western Apache Junction Inn
• Address: 1101 W Apache Trl, Apache Junction, AZ 85120-5402
• Amenities: Outdoor Pool, Free WiFi, Free Parking

9 Visit Those National Parks

Arizona is home to three National Parks: Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, and Saguaro. The Petrified Forest is located in northeastern Arizona and features petrified trees dating back 250 million years ago, and it has many archeological sites. Travelers can explore the area by taking different hikes, and it's also an excellent spot for camping.

Saguaro National Park is located in Southern Arizona and was named after the Saguaro cactus found in the park. It features many easy trails.

• Accommodation: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Holbrook Petrified Forest
• Address: 2705 Navajo Boulevard, Holbrook, AZ 86025

8 Stop By A Ghost Town

One of the most interesting things to do during a road trip in Arizona is to stop by a ghost town. While Jerome and Bisbee rank among the most famous, travelers can easily find many other ones around abandoned mines. Swansea is an excellent ghost town for people interested in exploring old buildings. Agua Caliente is another option, and it features an old cemetery.

For those interested in camping, Kentucky Camp allows visitors to camp in the area, and they can also rent a cabin .

• Accommodation: Guest House On Bear Canyon
• Address: 3841 N Bear Canyon Rd, Tanque Verde, AZ 85749
• Amenities: Air-Conditioned, Closed to Biking and Hiking Trails

7 Meet One Of The Most Diverse Forests In The Country

The Coconino National Forest is named after the Coho Native American people and features a range of activities. This forest stretches over two million acres, where visitors can find mining lands, Humphreys Peak (the highest point in Arizona), and Lake Mormon, the largest natural lake in the state.

This vast area can be explored on a scenic road trip, and people can also go hiking. During summer, the rivers and lakes within the park are great places to spend the day. During winter, Coconino becomes an excellent destination for skiing.

• Accommodation: Courtyard by Marriott Flagstaff
• Address: 2650 South Beulah Boulevard, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
• Amenities: Indoor Pool, Fitness Center, Restaurant

6 Discover Phoenix's Art scene

Another great reason to visit Phoenix is to discover its vibrant cultural scene . Travelers can find performances in theaters and exhibitions in many art galleries year-round. Street art is also something that can't be ignored when visiting Phoenix, and visitors can find many mural walls on the streets. The most famous is at Roosevelt Row Arts District, which is known as Phoenix's Mural Alley.

Travelers can also find many museums, such as the Phoenix Art Museum and the Musical Instrument Museum.

• Accommodation: The Westin Phoenix Downtown
• Address: 333 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85004

5 Visit Tombstone

Tombstone is the quintessential Wild West Town of the Southwest . The town continues to preserve its Old West days and architecture and claims some of the most iconic Wild West tales. Notably, it is where the iconic Gunfight at the O.K. Corral took place and today visitors come from far and wide to see the reenactments of the shootout that captured the imagination of the West.

4 Drive Bearizona

While nowhere can match Africa for wildlife safaris, North American safaris and wildlife is often underrated. Perhaps the best place to see North American wildlife in the wild is Yellowstone. But perhaps the best place to see wildlife in an open zoo where guests are the ones penned up in their cars is Bearizona. Bearizona is dedicated to North American wildlife with many of the most iconic of North American animals.

3 Check Out Navajo Bridge

Navajo Bridge is one of the very few crossing points over the Grand Canyon (or just before the Grand Canyon). It is located near the historic site of Lees Ferry - the only place where one can drive down to the Colorado River in the canyon. Navajo Bridge is both beautiful and historic as well as the gateway to the remote corner of Arizona north of the Grand Canyon.

2 Explore The Sonoran Desert

The Sonoran Desert is iconic in the American Southwest. It is where the most iconic of North American cactuses grow - including the rare and giant saguaro cactus. The desert is a hot desert and summer temperatures can be swelteringly hot. So it may be better to plan around visiting in the shoulder seasons or in the winter. The Sonoran Desert is also home to the Saguaro National Park.

1 Ride The Grand Canyon Railway

The while the Grand Canyon Railway goes to the Grand Canyon, it does not count as an activity in the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon Railway offers a chance to relive the old days of train travel going to the canyon from the gateway town of Williams. The Grand Canyon Railway is a great family activity with re-enactments including an old-timey Wild West "train robbery."

• Bucket List Ideas
• Top Sights In Arizona

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• a) I visit the
• b) Grand Canyon
• c) wherever 
• d) I go to Arizona.
• e) No error

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Wherever indians go (, we should make /a/ sure that wherever /b/ flood hits alms is sent /c/ to the poor and needy. /d/ no error/e/., wherever they go (, read the passage below and answer the question."fake news" is a real phenomenon. there are sleazy predators who cook up completely apocryphal news stories and try to get them circulated on social media and on the internet. but its a terrible pollution of the language for the president to call any article that criticizes him "fake news." if you compare the credibility of the presidents statement with those of the mainstream media, theres just no comparison. the presidents been called out on lie after lie after lie. and as someone whos often written for the so-called "mainstream media," for all their flaws, they got fact-checkers. they wont let me just write anything that comes into my head, ive got to prove it. so thats the kind of standard that has established the credibility of many of the news media.and the basis of democracy is that everyone can be criticized, particularly the leaders. we dont have a monarch, a supreme leader, or a dictator for life. weve got a person who is temporarily in charge of the government and when he makes an error, it is mandatory for the free press to call it out. to try to delegitimize the press whenever it criticizes the president, its really the reflex of an autocrat, of a tin-pot dictator in some banana republic and not worthy of a democracy like the united states where the president serves in our pleasure and can be criticized just like anyone else.q.based on the information in the given passage, which of the following is most likely to be true, direction: read the following passage carefully and answer the questions given below:in a significant verdict of march 2023, the supreme court on overruled its 2011 judgments in arup bhuyan vs state of assam, indra das vs state of assam and state of kerala vs raneef which held that mere membership of a banned association is not sufficient to constitute an offence under the unlawful activities (prevention) act 1967 or the terrorism and disruptive activities (prevention) act, unless it is accompanied with some overt violent act. a 3 judge bench upheld section 10(, top courses for clat view all.

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