If a trip to the Grand Canyon is on your bucketlist, you’ve got two options (unless you’re a local). You can either fly into Las Vegas or into Phoenix — both of which are a hefty drive to the Grand Canyon. While I do love Vegas, it’s not the place for families or those seeking a more laid-back, nature-focused trip.
That’s why I love the Phoenix to Grand Canyon option. Starting in Phoenix gives you so much to do and see to kick off your trip right. Plus, you can stop at some amazing landmarks along the way in Sedona and Flagstaff.
Thinking about doing the drive from Phoenix to Grand Canyon? Check out some of my recommendations along the way to make your road trip as perfect as possible.
Mapping out your Phoenix to Grand Canyon trip
The drive from Phoenix to Grand Canyon is about 230 miles in distance, which can take anywhere fro 3.5 hours to 4 hours depending on traffic (to the South Rim). Surely, you could just wake up early and do the drive right through. But I always believe road trips are a little more fun when you break up the drive along the way. If you’re considering breaking up the drive, some spots to check out include:
- Sedona: Known for its picturesque red rock formations, this town is truly a destination in itself. As you pass through, you can get a quick taste for Sedona to determine if it’s somewhere you’d like to come back to spend longer in another vacation. I spent one day in Sedona on the way to the Grand Canyon which had me hooked (and already planning my next trip).
- Williams, AZ: Families who are traveling to the Grand Canyon from Phoenix will especially like stopping at the historic Route 66 in Williams. This charming town feels like you’re in a movie (and has some great sweets shops and food spots to grab a bite at). I wish I had allowed a little more time to explore Williams (and plan to do so on my next road trip).
- Flagstaff, AZ: I personally have not stopped in Flagstaff but have heard great things about this pitstop on the way to the Grand Canyon.
What to consider
As you consider where to stop along the Phoenix to Grand Canyon route, remember that you’re likely going to need to return to Phoenix to fly home. Unless you’re planning to continue your road trip on elsewhere beyond the Grand Canyon, you probably will have to make the 4 hour trek back to the Phoenix airport.
Knowing this, it may be worthwhile to consider mapping out your itinerary to allow time to make stops on the way back to Phoenix. For example, maybe you stop and do Sedona hikes on the way but choose to explore Flagstaff or Williams on the return.
Recommendation: After all the hiking and walking you’ll do in the Grand Canyon, you probably won’t want to hike Sedona on the return trip. I recommend doing this on the way there and leaving the casual exploring for the return trip.
Other things to consider:
- If you’re trying to maximize time, leave early. The later in the day, the more traffic you’ll find along the route.
- There’s plenty of restroom and gas stops along the route from Phoenix to Grand Canyon.
- Those prone to altitude sickness may need to go slow during this drive.
Phoenix to Grand Canyon - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Q: Can you do Grand Canyon in a day Phoenix?
It’s possible to do Phoenix to Grand Canyon in a single day, though I don’t recommend it. With a drive time over 3 hours, these day trips leave very early in the morning and return late at night. This means it will be a long, exhausting day which can take away your ability to enjoy the true beauty of the Grand Canyon.
If you find yourself in Phoenix and truly only have one day to see the Grand Canyon, it’s worth signing up for. However, if you have flexibility in planning your trip, I’d avoid it (and this is coming from a high energy traveler). A slower pace will allow you to stop at other sights in Sedona along the way and feel less rushed.
Slow travel allows you to truly take it all in. A day trip also means you won’t get to see the Grand Canyon at sunset (which is so worth it). Instead of trying to cram it all in one day, I’d stay at least one night over near the Grand Canyon before returning to Phoenix.
Q: Is the drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon scenic?
Yes! The drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon is a beautiful drive, with many beautiful look-outs to stop at. On our most recent trip to the Grand Canyon, we stopped in Sedona for some pretty cool hikes. If you’re looking for quick, somewhat “easy” stops with good views, I recommend Devil’s Kitchen, Cibola Pass Trail and Seven Sacred Pools Trail.
Q: Are there hotels to stay in once I get to the Grand Canyon?
Of course! You’ll probably want to spend two days (for the casual explorer) in the Grand Canyon. I recommend staying at the Holiday Inn Squire Grand Canyon Resort (located near the South Rim entrance).