Are you planning a road trip to the Grand Canyon and wondering about the costs involved? Well, you’re not alone.
The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States and attracts millions of visitors each year. In this article, we’ll break down the different expenses you can expect on your road trip to the Grand Canyon.
Gas Expenses
One of the significant costs involved in a road trip to the Grand Canyon is gas expenses. The distance you will travel will depend on your starting location, but on average, it’s around 1,000 miles roundtrip. Gas prices vary from state to state, but as of 2021, gas prices range from $2.87 per gallon to $3.49 per gallon in the US.
Pro Tip: Plan your route beforehand and use apps like GasBuddy to find the cheapest gas stations along your route.
Lodging Expenses
Another significant expense is lodging. There are plenty of options for accommodation near the Grand Canyon, ranging from campsites to luxury hotels. Prices for lodging vary depending on the time of year and proximity to the canyon.
Pro Tip: Look for lodging outside of the park as it can be more affordable than staying inside. Also, consider camping as an option if you have camping gear as it’s considerably cheaper than other forms of accommodation.
Food Expenses
Food expenses can add up quickly on a road trip, especially if you’re eating out frequently. Be prepared for higher prices at restaurants near tourist attractions like the Grand Canyon.
Pro Tip: Pack snacks and drinks in a cooler so that you don’t have to buy them at convenience stores or gas stations along your route.
Entrance Fees
The entrance fee for a vehicle entering Grand Canyon National Park is $35, which is valid for seven days. This fee includes access to both the North Rim and South Rim of the park.
Pro Tip: If you plan on visiting multiple national parks during your road trip, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass for $80, which grants access to all national parks and federal recreation areas for a year.
Activities
There are plenty of activities to do at the Grand Canyon, such as hiking, rafting, and helicopter tours. These activities vary in price, but they can add up quickly.
Pro Tip: Research and book activities beforehand to get the best deals and avoid overcrowding during peak seasons.
Total Cost
The total cost of a road trip to the Grand Canyon will depend on your travel style and preferences. On average, a four-day road trip for two people can cost around $1,000-$1,500. This estimate includes gas, lodging, food, entrance fees, and some activities like hiking.
Pro Tip: Create a budget beforehand and stick to it by tracking your expenses using apps like Mint or Expensify.
In Conclusion
A road trip to the Grand Canyon can be an unforgettable experience with proper planning and budgeting. Gas expenses and lodging costs are significant expenses that you should expect while food expenses vary depending on your eating habits.
Entrance fees are unavoidable but can be reduced by purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass while activities add extra excitement but require additional budgeting. Remember to plan beforehand by creating a budget and researching deals on accommodations and activities. Enjoy your adventure!