The Grand Canyon is one of the world’s wonders. Nature created it. It is an exceptionally plunging steep barrier. It took the Colorado River thousands of years to dig such an incredible place in the hard rocks! Annually, many tourists come to the eponymous National Park. That flow will never become smaller. Below, you will read the five top secrets that locals know. Take them and arrange the road trip of your life!
When is the best time?
The late Spring is the best option for the entire year to attend the canyon. It is when it is already warm outside, but there are fewer visitors. The road to the northern edge is closed in winter and greets newcomers only in April. The Grand Canyon is an outstanding natural landmark that stretches for 277 miles and, in places, reaches more than 8,000 feet above sea level. Add the hitting sun and high temperature of the North American plateau.
Thus, the tip to take care of your and your fellow travelers’ health is in the first place! You should take bottled water, medicines if your team needs any and hats. Besides, read about how humans experience mountain sickness. When it is so high above sea level, people should be careful and think of resting. Consider finding some night stops in the neighboring settlements of the southern, western and northern parts of the Grand Canyon. There are many hotels inside as well. Book the room or prepare a tent and all the staff ahead of your trip.
What entrance gate to choose?
That matters when you come from a specific location. And it takes you more time to get there. We will tell you more about that later. Actually, you should see all of them! Seriously saying, there is no difference in terms of your impressions and attractions.
The Grand Canyon can always offer diverse experiences. Eventually, walking the Redwall Bridge is different from the more challenging ride to the edge at Thorowipe. Think of what activities you would like the most. You can go rafting on the Colorado River or book an IMAX ticket at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. Indeed!
There are many views of the Grand Canyon waiting for you. There are so many places. Choose any canyon basin excursions, cave exploration trips, trails through rock formations, and camping sites for dwellers who want to sleep under the stars.
You may ask different people and hear different opinions about the site location of the best sunset. You may even find out that the views from the upside of the Grand Canyon are many times more beautiful than from the ground. Thus, people may rent not even a rental car for young drivers but a helicopter to look at the bird-view.
The duration of the tour to the Grand Canyon is almost the same if you go from Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Albuquerque. Generally, the way lasts about four or five hours of the unstoppable ride. In any city, you can rent a vehicle. Then, go to the park gates. What is the age to rent a car in Arizona? Officially, it is from 21, although some services could offer something to 18 years-old drivers according to the updated regulations. It is possible to check the Internet for the desired service. You will find a profitable option for sure! Thus, we share more info on the routes below.
Road from Phoenix
The fastest way is to rent a car in Phoenix and head for a daily tour to the Grand Canyon National Park Sign. That will take up to four hours and 230 miles. From there, you can use transportation to get to the local settlement. You will have different activities to try. You can live in campgrounds, hike on touristic trails, or go rafting from the mighty river. If you are in charge of organizing the trip, better arrange every resting area, a place for meals, and a car rental under 25 ahead of your trip. There might be rules and exceptions for students. In any case, you will get different impressions of the same canyon.
Road from Albuquerque
That is 400 miles of pure beauty to the west with International 40W. Be aware! There are some payable road sections on your way. You may also check the road conditions before you go there. You will drive across Laguna Pueblo, Petrified Forest National Park, and Flagstaff. There is no need to run headlong. You may make stops to rest in cafes and hotels. Finally, your destination is the Grand Canyon East Entrance. There is a Desert View Watchtower and Navajo Point.
Road from Las Vegas
Move from Sin City to Moapa by I-15 N. Your next point will be in St. George and Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. The latter is a 44,724-acre reserve located in southwestern Utah with numerous trails. Indeed, the entire path is full of natural landmarks. You can stop in every city and feel the western vibe or drive away from your route and visit, for example, Valley of Fire State Park or West Mountain Peak. Then you will go along with the AZ-67 S next to Kaibab Plateau HP. The picturesque views will be with you up to the Grand Canyon Lodge – North Rim and Bright Angel Point, the overlook site.
Read much information about the place to arrange the getaway of your dream! Have a great road trip!