Best Road Trips to the Grand Canyon

So, you’ve decided this much: the Grand Canyon will be the end point of your next road trip. The next questions are: where will your journey begin, and how will you get to such a remote part of the United States? Before you get to the varying terrains within the Arizona park itself, you’ll experience jagged desert ridges, soaring firs, and oft-snow-capped mountains looming in the distance, along with some super-quirky towns en route.

Although there are bus tour options from Las Vegas, helicopter flights from Phoenix, and shuttles aplenty from Flagstaff, having a car at the Grand Canyon has major perks. With your own wheels, you can map your own adventure, visiting both the North Rim and South Rim, as well as choosing hikes to fill your day (or week) to the max.

So, as you balance flight costs, road-trip wishlists, and pinpoint the perfect place to start your voyage, here are the best road trips to the Grand Canyon.

1. Las Vegas to the North Rim via Zion National Park

Best road trip for a bonus national park
Las Vegas–North Rim, 275 miles (443 km)

From Las Vegas, why not enjoy a bonus national park on the way to the Grand Canyon? While the southern route to Grand Canyon National Park receives a lot of love, the northern route opens up a seamless detour to Zion National Park, where vivid red cliffs and emerald pools await. The closest town to the park’s gate, Springdale, is a prime spot for refreshments and local dining experiences. From there, it’s nothing but desert landscape and small towns, such as Kanab, as you make your way to the Northern Arizona border before ultimately entering the park.

Planning tip: If the North Rim is your final destination, ensure you’re going during the six months of the year its roads are open. The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is closed between December 1 and May 14 annually.

2. Las Vegas to the South Rim via Kingman, Arizona

Best road trip for quirky desert finds
Las Vegas–South Rim, 290 miles (467 km)

There is no shortage of glittering casino lights in Sin City, yet after a few days, some visitors may need a nature-infused reprieve. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is within a day-trip distance. Your South Rim journey will resemble a capital U on the map, via Interstate 11, US Route 93, and Interstate 40.

Within 45 minutes of Vegas, make pit stops at the Hoover Dam and the antique shop-laden town of Boulder City. When exploring Kingman, Arizona, experience an Insta-worthy stretch of Route 66, including the Arizona Route 66 Museum and charming diners offering quintessential American fare.

3. Flagstaff to the South Rim

Best road trip for a seamless, full-canyon adventure
Flagstaff–South Rim, 80 miles (129 km)

Situated approximately 150 miles north of Phoenix and just 90 miles south of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, Flagstaff provides an easy road trip destination to the canyon country. It’s a straight shot north on US Route 89 and over to Route 64 into the canyon. Expect sweeping, flat desert vistas during your drive.

Detour: If you have a few extra hours, trek north to Horseshoe Bend near the border town of Page. While it technically isn’t in the national park, its stunning views will inspire you.

4. Phoenix to the South Rim via Wickenburg and Williams

Best road trip for vineyards and historic towns
Phoenix–South Rim, 236 miles (380 km)

Instead of taking the straight shot along Interstate 17 from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon, consider the scenic route via US Route 93 and Arizona Route 89. After getting out of the urban bubble, visit the charming town of Wickenburg, where history is showcased at the Desert Caballeros Western Museum. Continue to Cottonwood, where numerous wine-tasting rooms await, alongside breathtaking views of the red rock scenery.

5. Los Angeles to the South Rim

Best road trip for desert tranquility
Los Angeles–South Rim, 502 miles (808 km)

This trip from Los Angeles to the South Rim takes about eight hours. Along the primarily Interstate 40 stretch, plan to make a few engaging stops. One notable stop is the Route 66 Mother Road Museum in Barstow, offering local artifacts and Route 66 memorabilia. Before crossing into Arizona, check out the breathtaking Mojave National Preserve to explore unique desert flora, including Joshua trees.

6. Salt Lake City to the North Rim via Moab

Best road trip for national park hoppers
Salt Lake City–North Rim, 622 miles (1001 km)

Utah is known for its national parks, and the Grand Canyon typically serves as the final destination on a park-hopping adventure initiated from Salt Lake City. Following US Route 6 and 191, you can experience the remarkable Arches National Park and the stunning Canyonlands. Upon arriving in Arizona, consider visiting the Navajo National Monument for a rewarding detour filled with natural beauty.

Planning tip: Allocate over a week for this trip; booking campsites or lodges in advance is advisable to ensure availability during peak seasons.

This article was first published Jan 17, 2023 and updated Mar 29, 2024.