- April–May and September–October offer the best weather and lighter crowds for this road trip.
- Book Antelope Canyon tours and park lodging early—they sell out fast, especially in spring and fall.
- Carry plenty of water, sun protection, and download offline maps since cell service is unreliable.
- The America the Beautiful Pass can save money if visiting 3+ national parks on this loop.
- Expect long drives; plan fuel stops and start early to maximize time at viewpoints and short hikes.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Trip Overview & Highlights
- Summary of Route & Duration
- Key Stops & Attractions
- Planning & Prep Before You Go
- Itinerary Breakdown
- Alternative Route Itineraries
- Logistics & Accommodations
- Shuttle vs. Driving
- When to Book Tours
- FAQ Section
Trip Overview & Highlights
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A Grand Canyon road trip is one of the most iconic American adventures in the Southwest.
Towering canyon walls, long desert highways, glowing red rock, and some of the country’s most legendary national parks.
It’s a lot to pack into one drive…but totally doable, memorable, and an absolute blast.
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, this itinerary balances the essentials with the good stuff:
- classic viewpoints
- scenic drives
- little hikes with big payoffs, and
- Side trips are worth the extra miles
The route forms a loop starting in:
- Las Vegas or Phoenix
- traveling through the Grand Canyon South Rim
- Page, Arizona
- Zion National Park
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- with optional detours along Route 66 and through the Valley of Fire.
Along the way, you’ll hit icons like Mather Point and Horseshoe Bend, explore slot canyons like Antelope Canyon, and take on some of the Southwest’s best hikes in Zion and Bryce.
Designed as a 7-day road trip, this itinerary works just as well for families as it does for couples or solo travelers.
Each day includes realistic drive times, scenic pullouts, and flexible options. Nothing is set in stone here, aside from the canyons.
Feel free to adjust based on weather, energy levels, and just how much you want to do that day.
Summary of Route & Duration
This road trip covers roughly 1,100–1,300 miles, depending on the detours you pick and your starting city.
I’d recommend spreading the itinerary across 7 days, though it can be shortened to 4–5 days or expanded to 10+ days.
Starting in Las Vegas means easy access to the Hoover Dam and Zion, while Phoenix provides a scenic desert route through Sedona and Flagstaff. Both cities offer access to airports.
Key Stops & Attractions
South Rim
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The South Rim is the Grand Canyon most people picture—and for good reason. It’s easy to access, packed with classic viewpoints, and delivers an immediate, no-hike-required wow factor.
Stops like Mather Point, Desert View Watchtower, and the Rim Trail offer big views with minimal effort, while reliable shuttles, lodging, and visitor services make it one of the easiest national park experiences to plan.
If you’re traveling with kids, people with limited mobility, or first-timers, this is a no-brainer, no-sweat stop.
Lake Powell & Antelope Canyon
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Just outside Page, Arizona, the landscape shifts from deep canyon to wide-open desert.
Lake Powell winds through red rock cliffs in long, turquoise bends, while nearby Antelope Canyon delivers the tight, sculpted sandstone walls it’s famous for.
A short drive away, Horseshoe Bend offers one of the most dramatic overlooks in the Southwest, with the Colorado River looping far below.
Zion & Bryce Canyon
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The bustling canyon of Zion National Park features towering sandstone cliffs, lush riparian gardens, and famous heart-pounding hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows.
Bryce Canyon feels completely different—cooler, quieter, and filled with thousands of hoodoos packed into massive natural amphitheaters.
Catch sunrise or sunset here, and it’s hard not to stop and stare longer than planned.
Day-by-Day Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1: Arrival & Drive to the Grand Canyon South Rim
Starting Point: Las Vegas or Phoenix
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Your Grand Canyon road trip begins in either Las Vegas or Phoenix. Both of which offer major airports, plenty of rental car options, and easy highway access.
Las Vegas is ideal if you want to include
- Zion National Park
- Bryce Canyon, or
- Valley of Fire later in the trip
...while Phoenix is perfect for travelers interested in:
- Sedona
- Flagstaff, and
- Route 66 detours
Plan to depart early in the day to allow time for scenic stops and to arrive at the Grand Canyon before sunset.
Catching those pink and golden rays as the sun goes down? Unforgettable.
Drive Time & Scenic Stops
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From Las Vegas, the drive to the South Rim takes about 4.5–5 hours without stops.
One of the most popular early detours is the Hoover Dam, where you can:
- walk across the dam,
- view the Colorado River far below
- Take a Shaka Guide tour to learn all about its role in shaping the Southwest.
Nearby Boulder City is a good place for breakfast, fuel, some light shopping, or helicopter tours.
Continue east toward Kingman, Arizona, where you can briefly connect with Historic Route 66.
Towns like Seligman and Williams offer classic roadside Americana, vintage diners, bars, gift shops, and photo ops that bring Route 66 history to life.
From Phoenix, the drive is slightly shorter at 3.5–4 hours.
Consider a little detour through Sedona for red rock views before heading up to lodgings at Flagstaff or Williams.
Arrival at the South Rim
Enter the park through the South Entrance and head straight to Mather Point, Yavapai Point, or Yaki Point for your first canyon views.
Sunset is breathtaking, as shifting light reveals layers of color across the canyon walls. When you’re done, check into your lodging in Flagstaff or Williams.
Day 2: Exploring the Grand Canyon South Rim
Visitor Center & Mather Point
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Begin your day at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, where exhibits explain the canyon’s geology, Indigenous history, and early exploration.
From here, walk to Mather Point, one of the most expansive viewpoints on the South Rim and an excellent sunrise location.
Then, spend the rest of the morning walking sections of the Rim Trail, a mostly paved, flat path that stretches for miles along the canyon edge. Popular segments include:
- Mather Point to Yavapai Point, featuring panoramic overlooks
- Yavapai Geology Museum, which explains how the canyon formed
- Hopi Point is one of the best sunset locations in the park
Afterwards, head over to Grand Canyon Village to explore the countless museums, gift shops, photography studios, historic lodge, and more.
Then, in the afternoon, consider a short hike below the rim, such as descending partway down the Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail.
Even a brief descent offers a powerful sense of the canyon’s depth—just remember to turn around before fatigue sets in.
Finally, hop on the shuttle and ride Hermit Road (free shuttle required, no advance reservations needed), stopping at several of the overlooks along the way.
Grab a snack at the historic Hermit’s Rest, and finish the day with sunset at Hopi Point, one of the best viewpoints on the South Rim.
Day 3: Grand Canyon to Page, Arizona
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Scenic Drive: Desert View Drive
Head back up for your final trip to the South Rim. But this time, we’re heading to Desert View Drive, one of the most scenic roads in the park.
This eastern route features multiple overlooks that many visitors miss, including:
- Lipan Point, offering expansive Colorado River views
- Moran Point, known for its dramatic rock layers
- Navajo Point, the highest viewpoint on the South Rim
- Desert View Watchtower, a stone tower inspired by Ancestral Puebloan architecture, with sweeping views from the top
- Multiple Navajo craft stalls
Allow at least 2–3 hours for this drive, stopping frequently for photos and short walks. Then, when you’re done, swing into the Cameron Trading Post for a Navajo taco…yum!
Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend
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Continue to Page, Arizona (about 2.5 hours total from the South Rim). In the afternoon, visit Horseshoe Bend, a short walk to a dramatic overlook where the Colorado River curves around a massive sandstone formation.
Later, join a guided tour of Antelope Canyon (book in advance! Slots fill up quickly!), one of the Southwest’s most photographed slot canyons.
Upper Antelope Canyon is more accessible and famous for light beams, while the Lower Antelope Canyon is more adventurous and involves ladders and narrow passages.
Stay overnight in Page, which has plenty of dining and hotel options.
Day 4: Page to Zion National Park
Lake Powell Viewpoints
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Before you leave Page, take time to admire Lake Powell, a massive reservoir surrounded by red rock cliffs. Popular viewpoints include:
- Glen Canyon Dam Overlook
- Wahweap Overlook
- Optional boat or kayak rentals for those with extra time.
Scenic Drive to Zion & Sunset Arrival
Drive westward toward Zion National Park, crossing into Utah and passing through wide-open desert landscapes.
If there’s time, consider swinging into Fredonia or Mt. Carmel Junction. Both towns have quite a few attractions.
- some quick hikes,
- petroglyphs,
- and other short stops to check out.
More details can be found in our full Zion Itinerary. The drive takes about 2.5 hours, but plan for more time if you’re doing any sightseeing.
When you arrive, you’ll enter Zion through the Mount Carmel Tunnel, where the canyon suddenly opens into towering sandstone walls.
You’ll then pass through East Zion, where massive slickrock domes and striped checkerboard mesas rise straight from the roadside.
For sunset, stretch your legs with the short Canyon Overlook Trail, which delivers one of Zion’s best views with minimal effort.
Day 5: Zion National Park – Full Exploration Day
Angels Landing or Canyon Overlook
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Today you’re exploring the main draw of the park: Zion Canyon. Start early to avoid crowds. Adventurous hikers can attempt Angels Landing (permit required), one of the most iconic and thrilling hikes in the U.S., featuring steep switchbacks and chain-assisted sections with incredible views.
If Angels Landing isn’t your style (or you couldn’t snag a permit), consider:
- Emerald Pools Trail for waterfalls and shaded paths
- Canyon Overlook Trail for a shorter but rewarding hike
The Narrows or Alternative Hikes
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In warmer months, it’s highly recommended for you to hike The Narrows, directly following the Virgin River beneath towering canyon walls.
This hike can be done as a short out-and-back or extended deeper into the canyon to its narrowest point: Wall Street.
Be sure to rent water shoes and walking sticks in Springdale (or pack your own!)
Other excellent alternatives include Observation Point (via East Mesa) or, if you are short on time or need something more accessible, Pa’rus Trail, a scenic, easy walk along the river.
Spend the evening relaxing in Springdale or enjoying sunset views from the canyon floor.
Day 6: Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park
Scenic Drive & Red Canyon
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Travel northeast toward Bryce Canyon, passing through high-elevation forests and colorful rock formations.
If time allows, stop at Red Canyon, often considered a preview of Bryce’s hoodoos, with short trails and scenic pullouts.
The drive takes about 2–2.5 hours, making it a relaxed travel day, as long as you set off early.
Bryce Amphitheater Hikes
Now, it’s time to explore Bryce Amphitheater, home to thousands of hoodoos. Some highlighted viewpoints include:
- Sunrise Point
- Sunset Point
- Inspiration Point
- Bryce Point
The Queen’s Garden–Navajo Loop is an immersive walk among the hoodoos and is one of the park’s best trails.
Stay overnight near Bryce Canyon or continue toward your return route if short on time.
Day 7: Return Loop or Exit Point
Valley of Fire OR Route 66 Detour
On your return drive, choose between two memorable detours:
- Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada): Known for fiery red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and short scenic hikes like Fire Wave and Elephant Rock.
- Route 66 Detour: Travel through Seligman, Kingman, and Williams for classic diners, roadside attractions, and historic charm.
Both options add some variety and novelty to your final road trip day.
Return to Las Vegas or Phoenix
End your journey by returning to your starting city, completing an unforgettable loop through some of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest.
Alternative Route Itineraries
Route 66 Classic Loop
A Route 66 variation includes Williams, Seligman, and Kingman, offering vintage diners, roadside attractions, and classic Americana.
This route works especially well from Las Vegas and pairs nicely with the Grand Canyon South Rim.
Direct Phoenix → Grand Canyon
Travelers starting in Phoenix can detour through Sedona for red rock hikes or Flagstaff for mountain scenery before reaching the South Rim. This route adds elevation changes and scenic diversity.
Adding a Day
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Got an extra day? Capitol Reef National Park is the move. It’s less crowded than Zion or Bryce, just as scenic, and far more relaxed. From Bryce, it’s a 2.5–3 hour drive along Highway 12, one of Utah’s most scenic roads.
Expect towering red cliffs, quiet slot canyons, and a surprisingly green oasis at Fruita, where historic orchards still line the canyon floor.
Planning & Prep Before You Go
Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon
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The best time for a Grand Canyon road trip is April–May and September–October. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and clear skies.
Summer brings intense heat, especially in Page and Zion, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F. “
...But it’s a dry heat!” Well, maybe. But trust me, you can dehydrate just the same.
Winter offers snow-dusted canyon views and fewer visitors, but some roads, trails, and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon close seasonally.
The weather also varies by elevation. The South Rim sits over 7,000 feet, while Page and Zion Canyon floors are about 3,000 feet lower.
Always check forecasts for each destination and prepare for sudden weather changes.
How much should I budget for a Grand Canyon road trip?
Entrance fees for national parks typically cost $30–$35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. If you’re visiting multiple parks, the $80 America the Beautiful Pass is usually the best value.
Additional expenses include Antelope Canyon tours ($70–$100 per person), lodging inside or near Grand Canyon National Park, fuel, parking meters, and optional guided hikes or shuttles. Book accommodations early to keep costs down during peak seasons.
What should I pack for a Grand Canyon road trip?
Bring layered clothing, sun protection, sturdy hiking shoes, and plenty of water—at least one gallon per person per day in summer.
Cell service is unreliable in many areas, so download your Shaka Guide tour before you start. Avoid hiking in extreme heat, stay on marked trails, and respect wildlife.
For slot canyons, always check the weather—flash-flood risk is serious, and you should not enter if rain is expected near Grand Canyon National Park or upstream areas.
Logistics & Accommodations
Car Rental & Route Planning
Rent an SUV or mid-size vehicle for comfort and flexibility. Download offline maps and park apps before departure.
Park Lodging vs. Nearby Towns
Staying inside parks saves drive time, while towns like Tusayan, Page, Williams, and Springdale offer more dining options and lower prices. If you’re interested in in-park accommodations, you’ll need to book them far, far in advance.
Camping & RV Options
Campgrounds are available at all major parks but require advance reservations during peak seasons. RV travelers should check length restrictions and hookups.
Shuttle vs. Driving
Zion and the Grand Canyon South Rim offer seasonal shuttle systems that reduce traffic and ease congestion. Both of these shuttles are required at certain times of the year.
Advanced tickets or reservations for the shuttles are not required. Check out the Zion Shuttle Guide and Grand Canyon Shuttle Guide for more information.
When to Book Tours
Antelope Canyon tours and Angels Landing permits should be booked weeks or months in advance, especially in spring, summer, and fall.
FAQ Section
How many days do I need for a Grand Canyon road trip?
A full road trip usually takes about 7 days, but the main highlights of Grand Canyon National Park can be experienced in 1–2 days. For a more relaxed visit—or to fit in an inner-canyon hike—plan 3–4 days at the South Rim.
South Rim vs North Rim?
The South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is open year-round, easier to access, and best for first-time visitors. The North Rim is quieter and more scenic but seasonal. Because the rims are nearly five hours apart, add the North Rim after visiting Page, on your route toward Zion.
Is the America the Beautiful Pass worth it?
Yes. The America the Beautiful Pass is worth it if you’re visiting more than two national parks. This itinerary includes three, so the pass will save you money compared to buying individual entrance fees.
Explore with Shaka Guide
Enhance your Grand Canyon road trip with Shaka Guide’s GPS-based audio tours, which play automatically as you drive. Learn the canyon’s geology, history, and legends while discovering scenic pullouts and hidden viewpoints you might otherwise miss—hands-free and perfectly timed for the road.
Rachel Ennis is a storyteller, nature nerd, and park enthusiast who believes every trail has a tale. When she first visited the Grand Canyon, she fell in love—with the layers, the legends, and the way nature can heal the spirit.
Now, she’s on a mission to share the stories that live in the land—and the places that make us feel small in the best way.
Ready to explore Grand Canyon South Rim?
Take Shaka Guide’s Grand Canyon South Rim Audio Tour for turn-by-turn directions, local stories, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Visiting more parks in the region?
Don’t miss our Arizona Tour Bundle — it includes tours for Sedona, Monument Valley, the North Rim, and many more!
Still planning?
Check out our Grand Canyon South Rim One-Day Itinerary and Know Before You Go guide to prep for your trip.
Have questions?
We’re happy to help — email us at aloha@shakaguide.com.
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