The Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world, drawing millions of visitors every year. While taking a helicopter ride over the canyon or hiking its trails are great ways to explore this magnificent attraction, one of the most exciting ways to experience it is by taking an epic road trip. From historic Route 66 to the scenic Desert View Drive, here are 10 epic road trips to the Grand Canyon that you must experience.
1. Route 66 – This iconic route is one of America’s most famous highways. Those who want to experience the classic American road trip will appreciate the sense of nostalgia and adventure that comes with traveling down Route 66. It spans more than 2,400 miles from Chicago to California, with the final stretch passing through Arizona and ending at the Grand Canyon.
2. Arizona Trail – The Arizona Trail is a 800-mile-long route connecting the Mexican border to the Utah state line. While it’s not specifically designed as a scenic road trip, the trail passes through some of Arizona’s most picturesque towns, mountains, and creeks, making it an extraordinary experience for those who want to explore more of the Arizona landscape.
3. Utah Highway 89 – Starting at the northern border of Arizona, this stunning 502-mile highway meanders through some of Florida’s most diverse natural scenery, including national parks, canyons, and lakes. It passes through the Grand Canyon’s north rim and ends up at Salt Lake City.
4. Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon – This road trip stretches just over 300 miles and is perfect for those who want to experience both the excitement of Las Vegas and the beauty of the Grand Canyon. The drive passes through the eccentric town of Kingman before reaching the scenic overlooks of the Grand Canyon.
5. Sedona Red Rock Scenic Byway – This 9.5-mile stretch of scenic byway is one of Arizona’s most picturesque drives. The road meanders through magnificent red rock formations and offers stunning views of the Verde Valley.
6. Monument Valley Scenic Drive – Located near the Arizona-Utah border, Monument Valley is a must-visit destination for any road trip enthusiast. The 17-mile scenic drive takes you through spectacular sandstone formations, offering uninterrupted views of cliff faces and secluded sand dunes.
7. Apache Trail – Just east of Phoenix is the Apache Trail, a 48-mile scenic drive through the Tonto National Forest, that winds its way along the Salt River and is a must-see for those interested in exploring the ancient history of Arizona.
8. Desert View Drive – This 25-mile scenic road trip runs from the Grand Canyon Village to the Desert View Watchtower. It passes through some of the Grand Canyon’s most breathtaking overlooks and offers stunning views of the Colorado River and the Painted Desert.
9. Payson to Pine – This short scenic drive is just 30 miles long but boasts some of the most dramatic natural scenery in the region. The drive starts at Payson and passes through charming mountain towns before ending at the historic Pine-Strawberry Museum.
10. Flagstaff to Sedona – This 28-mile drive passes through Oak Creek Canyon, a natural wonder that’s found just south of Flagstaff. The road weaves through deep valleys, towering rock formations, and lush forests, ending in the picturesque town of Sedona.
In conclusion, the Grand Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder that can be experienced in many ways. Road tripping is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the Grand Canyon and its surrounding areas. These 10 epic road trips to the Grand Canyon offer travelers the chance to explore some of Arizona’s most scenic routes, offering spectacular vistas and unparalleled natural beauty.
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