Are you planning a road trip to the Grand Canyon? One of the most frequently asked questions is – how long does it take to get there?
The answer to this question depends on various factors such as your starting location, mode of transportation, and the route you take. In this article, we will explore different options and provide estimates for how long it might take to get to the Grand Canyon.
Driving
From Las Vegas: If you’re departing from Las Vegas, driving to the Grand Canyon will take approximately 4-5 hours depending on traffic. You can choose between two routes – one through the Hoover Dam and Flagstaff or the other through Kingman. Both routes have their own scenic views and landmarks worth exploring.
From Phoenix: If you’re leaving from Phoenix, it will take around 3.5-4 hours to reach the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. The quickest route is via I-17 North and I-40 West.
From Los Angeles: If you’re starting in Los Angeles, expect a drive time of around 7 hours depending on traffic conditions. Take I-15 North towards Las Vegas before turning onto I-40 East towards Flagstaff.
Flying
If you’re flying, there are two main airports that serve Grand Canyon National Park – Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
Flagstaff Pulliam Airport: Located just 90 minutes from the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, this airport receives flights from a few major airlines including American Airlines and United Airlines.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport: This airport is larger than Flagstaff Pulliam Airport and has more flight options available. From Phoenix, you can either rent a car or hop onto a shuttle service that operates between the airport and Grand Canyon National Park.
Bus Tours
If you’re not too keen on driving, there are plenty of bus tour options available. Most tours depart from Las Vegas or Phoenix and typically last for a day or two.
From Las Vegas: Bus tours from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon usually take around 12-14 hours round trip. These tours typically include stops at various viewpoints along the South Rim.
From Phoenix: Bus tours from Phoenix to Grand Canyon usually take around 13-15 hours round trip and include stops at both the South and East Rims of the park.
Hiking
If you’re planning on hiking in the Grand Canyon, it’s important to note that getting to your trailhead may add additional time to your trip. The most popular trailheads are located on the South Rim, which is approximately 4-5 hours drive from Las Vegas or Phoenix.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, how long a road trip takes to Grand Canyon depends on various factors such as your starting location, mode of transportation, and route taken. If you’re short on time, flying or taking a bus tour might be a better option for you.
However, if you have more time and prefer more flexibility in your itinerary, driving might be a great option. Regardless of how you choose to get there, visiting the Grand Canyon is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed!