Grand Canyon National Park Road Trip

There’s something magical about seeing the Grand Canyon National Park for the first time. It’s even more special when shared with someone you love.
On our latest road trip, my husband and our adult son, Ryan, joined me. We packed up our pull-behind camper for the adventure.
Then we loaded up our two dogs and hit the open road. It was Ryan’s first time seeing the Grand Canyon. Watching his awe as he stood at the rim was unforgettable. That moment became a memory we’ll always treasure.

If you’re planning your own road trip to Grand Canyon National Park, I hope our journey gives you some helpful tips, inspiration, and a little encouragement to take that trip you’ve been dreaming about.

Planning Your Itinerary to Grand Canyon National Park

Planning a Grand Canyon road trip takes a bit of forethought, especially if you’re bringing a camper and dogs. We planned our visit for spring—before the summer crowds and intense heat roll in. Weather-wise, it was ideal. Days were sunny and crisp, and nights were cool enough for campfire cuddles and stargazing.

Our route followed scenic byways with plenty of rest stops. The dogs had lots of chances to stretch their legs. If you’re RVing or towing a camper, check your route in advance. Watch for steep grades or limited-access roads near the South Rim. We gave ourselves three full days at the park. It felt like a good mix of hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing at camp. If it’s your first visit, don’t rush the experience. The Grand Canyon is a place to slow down and savor.

Choosing the Best Route to Grand Canyon National Park

When considering the most optimal route for this journey, one must carefully evaluate various factors such as distance, scenic beauty, and road conditions. We also recommend taking more days to get there so that you can explore more things along your route. We usually try to give ourselves 2-3 days to get to our destination.

If you’re planning a road trip from Oklahoma to the Grand Canyon like we did, there are a few possible routes you can take, depending on your preferences and points of interest you’d like to explore along the way. Here’s a suggested route that combines scenic drives and notable attractions:

Route: Oklahoma City, OK – Amarillo, TX – Albuquerque, NM – Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

Oklahoma City, OK to Amarillo, TX: Start your journey by heading west on I-40 from Oklahoma City. As you travel through the western part of Oklahoma and into the Texas Panhandle, you’ll pass through picturesque landscapes and small towns. In Amarillo, make sure to visit the famous Cadillac Ranch, a public art installation featuring a row of half-buried Cadillac cars.
Amarillo, TX to Albuquerque, NM: Continue west on I-40 from Amarillo. This stretch of the journey will take you through the vast open plains of the Texas Panhandle and into New Mexico. As you approach Albuquerque, you may want to take a detour to visit the stunningly beautiful Palo Duro Canyon State Park, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas.”
Albuquerque, NM to Grand Canyon National Park, AZ: Departing from Albuquerque, take I-40 west until you reach Flagstaff, Arizona. From Flagstaff, take US-180 north to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This route will take you through the scenic Coconino National Forest, offering picturesque views of pine forests, mountains, and dramatic landscapes.

Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to explore attractions such as:

Route 66: As you travel on I-40, you’ll follow a portion of the historic Route 66. Take some time to explore the Route 66 museums, diners, and quirky roadside attractions that dot the route.

Petrified Forest National Park: Located off I-40 near Holbrook, Arizona, this national park showcases ancient petrified wood and stunning geological formations. Take a drive through the park’s scenic road or embark on hiking trails to witness the unique landscape.
Santa Fe, New Mexico: If you have extra time, consider making a detour to Santa Fe, renowned for its vibrant art scene, adobe architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Visit the historic Plaza, explore art galleries, and indulge in Southwestern cuisine.

Oak Creek Canyon: Located near Flagstaff, Oak Creek Canyon is a breathtakingly beautiful gorge renowned for its red rock formations, lush forests, and crystal-clear creek. Take a scenic drive along State Route 89A, and consider stopping at Slide Rock State Park to cool off in natural waterslides.

On our specific road trip, we stopped at: The Big Texan, The Petrified Forest, Meteor Crater, and Horseshoe Bend.

At the Grand Canyon National Park

Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the awe-inspiring vistas, hike the trails, and take in the majestic beauty of one of the world’s most renowned natural wonders.

Pro Tip: Remember to plan your accommodations in advance, as well as check for any road closures or construction along your chosen route.

The best route once you reach the Grand Canyon National Park road trip starts at the Grand Canyon Village and takes visitors on a scenic drive along the South Rim. This route allows travelers to enjoy breathtaking views of the canyon from multiple viewpoints, such as Mather Point and Desert View Watchtower. Additionally, it provides easy access to popular hiking trails like Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail.

– Distance: The chosen route should take into account the distance from your starting point to the Grand Canyon National Park. Opting for a shorter distance can help save time and energy.

– Scenic Beauty: A road trip is all about enjoying beautiful landscapes. Choosing a route that offers stunning views of natural wonders like canyons, forests, or rivers can enhance the overall experience.

– Road Conditions: It is important to consider the condition of the roads along your chosen route. Smooth and well-maintained roads will ensure a comfortable journey without any unnecessary delays or inconveniences.

Our Adventures in the Grand Canyon National Park

As you embark on your grand adventure through Grand Canyon National Park, choosing the best route becomes crucial in satisfying your subconscious desire for freedom. Picture yourself driving along a scenic road that winds its way along the majestic South Rim of the canyon. With each curve, your anticipation grows as you catch glimpses of sheer cliffs dropping into an abyss below. The grandeur of Mather Point beckons you to stop and marvel at nature’s masterpiece, while Desert View Watchtower promises panoramic vistas that will leave you breathless.

Now that we have considered how to choose the best route for our Grand Canyon National Park road trip, let us explore some must-see points of interest within this vast wilderness paradise without further delay.

Must-See Points of Interest at Grand Canyon National Park

The South Rim is the most accessible and offers the most iconic views. We started at Mather Point, and I’ll never forget Ryan’s face when he walked up to the edge and saw that massive canyon stretch out before him. It truly takes your breath away.

Other must-see stops:

Desert View Watchtower – A stunning structure with panoramic views and historical significance.
Yavapai Point and Geology Museum – Great for understanding how the canyon was formed.
Bright Angel Trailhead – Even if you don’t hike down, the views from here are incredible.

Hermit Road (shuttle-only during peak season) – We drove this during off-season and stopped at every overlook.

Each viewpoint offers a different perspective, and even after hours of gazing, it never gets old.

Outdoor Activities and Hiking Trails at Grand Canyon National Park

We stuck mostly to South Rim hikes since we had the dogs and were mindful of Ryan’s first experience not being too overwhelming.

Some trails and walks we enjoyed:

Rim Trail – Mostly paved and dog-friendly. Great for leashed pups and easy on the knees.
South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point – This was more intense but totally worth it. We took turns hiking so someone could stay with the dogs.

Trail of Time – A unique, educational walk along the rim with geologic markers.

If you’re hiking with dogs, keep in mind they aren’t allowed below the rim. That’s why the Rim Trail is a lifesaver—it still offers epic views and you don’t have to leave your pups behind.

Transitioning into the next section about hotels, camping, and RVing options, it’s important to plan your accommodations ahead since these parks attract millions of visitors each year. Whether you prefer staying in cozy lodges within or near these parks or enjoy camping under starry skies surrounded by nature’s grandeur, there are plenty of options available for all budgets.

Hotels, Camping, and RVing Options

This paragraph will discuss camping and RVing options near the Grand Canyon, as well as hotel options nearby.

When visiting the Grand Canyon, visitors have the option to camp or park their RV in designated areas. These camping and RVing options allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature and experience a unique outdoor adventure.

Additionally, there are several hotels located near the Grand Canyon offering comfortable accommodations for those who prefer a more traditional lodging experience.

Camping and RVing Near the Grand Canyon

We camped at Trailer Village RV Park inside the park, and I can’t recommend it enough. Full hookups, spacious sites, and the convenience of being minutes from the rim made it ideal. Plus, we had a few curious elk stroll right through our campsite!

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Other options include:

Mather Campground (dry camping, also inside the park)

Ten-X Campground (just outside the park, a bit more rustic)
Grand Canyon Camper Village (in Tusayan, with full hookups)

If you’re boondocking or enjoy dispersed camping, national forest areas just south of the park offer free camping with some restrictions.

Hotel Options Near the Grand Canyon National Park

If you’re not RVing, or have friends joining you who prefer a cozy bed and hot shower, there are plenty of hotel options nearby:

El Tovar Hotel – Historic and iconic, perched right on the rim.
Yavapai Lodge – Family-friendly, pet-friendly, and comfortable.

Holiday Inn Resort The Squire at Grand Canyon by IHG – Located in Tusayan with lots of amenities.
The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon – Rustic luxury vibes just outside the park entrance.

Book early, especially during peak season—these fill up fast!

Ultimately, whether visitors choose to stay at one of these iconic lodges or explore other hotel options near the Grand Canyon, they can expect comfortable accommodations and convenient access to all that this natural wonder offers.

I’m a firm believer that you can’t take a bad photo at the Grand Canyon—but there are definitely a few standout spots:

Best Photo Spots

I’m a firm believer that you can’t take a bad photo at the Grand Canyon—but there are definitely a few standout spots:

Mather Point at sunrise or sunset – The colors are unreal.
Desert View Watchtower – With the Colorado River snaking below.
Yaki Point – A little less crowded, but incredibly photogenic.

Any spot along Hermit Road – Seriously, each overlook is a gem.
Bright Angel Trail switchbacks – If you hike down a bit, the perspective is amazing.

Best Photo Tip: Up by the rim, from the visitors center, follow the signs to the rim. Once you get to the rim, go left. You’ll see some rocks that stick out into the canyon without rails. There’s a path to the right of that! Follow that path down to the first platform. Right there, you will see some rocks that stick out pretty far, but there is also a shelf! You will stand on that and reach out over the rock shelf above you! So it’s totally safe and you’ll look like you’re hanging off the cliff when really you’re standing on a huge platform that nobody can see in the photo

We also brought our Insta360 camera and took some beautiful 360-degree shots—perfect for capturing those wide canyon views.

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Bringing the Dogs: What You Need to Know

We travel often with our pups, so we’re used to planning ahead for them. Here’s what helped:

Always carry water and collapsible bowls.

The pavement can get hot fast—early mornings or evenings are best for walks.
Rim Trail and campgrounds are dog-friendly, but anything below the rim is off-limits.
We brought their favorite blankets and toys to make the camper feel like home.

People loved stopping to pet them and ask about our trip—it actually sparked a few fun conversations with fellow travelers!

What Made This Trip So Special

There’s something deeply grounding about the Grand Canyon. It humbles you in the best way and reminds you just how vast and beautiful our world really is. But what made this trip truly unforgettable was watching Ryan experience it for the first time.

Sharing that moment with my husband, Ryan, and our dogs beside us—campfire crackling, canyon winds blowing, stargazing late into the night—it reminded me why we road trip in the first place. It’s not just the destinations. It’s the people (and pups!) you share it with.

Whether you’re planning your first trip to the Grand Canyon or returning to its majestic rim once again, I hope our family’s adventure inspires you to hit the road and create your own unforgettable memories.

If you’ve visited or are planning your own Grand Canyon adventure, I’d love to hear about it in the comments!