Here you can gaze in wonder at the giant red sandstone formations. Christmas and New Years are also very special times to visit the Grand Canyon. Red rock arches silhouetted against a bluebird sky. Grand Canyon Caverns Its a series of underground caves outside Tusayan. Go on a Bryce Canyon adventure on a bike, ATV, or horse. Besides just being the middle point of the route, Moab is an incredible city you could spend days exploring. Also, check the weather forecast before you go. Arches National Park is a popular tourist destination. The Grand Canyon is famous for its water, and the question of whether or not it has any is often asked. Drink lots of fluids! At the Shonto Marketplace, take State Route 98 and follow it to Page. For first time visitors and those with limited time, visiting the overlooks on Island in the Sky is one of the best things to do in Canyonlands National Park. Once you reach the viewing area, you will be awestruck at the seemingly endless horizon and mammoth vertical drop. Spend two days exploring this canyon if time is limited. Distance from Grand Canyon Village - 430 miles/692 km. They include topics such archaeology. It is located at latitude35deg54N and longitude 111deg01W. That also would give you more time in the park but not take the extra night for it. Bring plenty of water and food if you are planning to hike. While you're driving, you can visit the Wupatki National Monument, a collection of pueblos that date back over 900 years ago. Distance from Grand Canyon Village - 328 miles/528 km. Hmm, I just did a quick pricing comparison for dropping off the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? There's even free private parking, so you don't have to worry about where to put your vehicle when you arrive. You can camp in the parks many campsites, either next to the river or in a meadow. trip dates & more! Please dont litter! Discover the secrets of the parks hidden gems. GC to MV Tribal Park is a little longer than 3 hours and you will want to stop along east rim (Desert View) and at Cameron. You could be injured by animals. You have two options: continue south through New Mexico; or, turn around and return to home. You can spend several days exploring the canyons. Here are ten great ways to see Grand Canyon, without spending a cent. The other is from the South Rim. Choose water, land, train or foodie escapades. Phoenix is also a great choice for those who need to be close enough to the airport. This includes foods taken out of the kitchen or prepared in a restaurant. Nearest place to stay for visiting Grand Canyon. You can learn how they make pottery and jewelry, as well as baskets. This is due to the complexity of karst aquifer systems and their vulnerability to contamination. 460 miles. The hotel itself is large and beautiful, and you can do virtually anything here, from relaxing in the hot tub or huge outdoor pool, to exercising in the fitness area and enjoying a variety of on-site performances. Navajo Nation Fair It is held each year in Holbrook (AZ). Perhaps you might consider taking a photo of yourself in the Grand Canyon. It is easier to reach the North Rim. Not for the faint of heart, peering over the lookout is breathtaking. Leave no trace! In fact, April is one of the best months to visit the Grand Canyon. Los Angeles and Phoenix are the top three most visited cities. TravelAwaits Jordan Palmer has more on visiting The Wave in all its difficulty and splendor. You need to think about how far you are willing to travel from Las Vegas. After many trips to the Grand Canyon and Southwest, our editor has created a list of her favorite things to bring along. Your road trip offers you many incredible drives, including Utahs Scenic Byway, Highway 12. The trip is about a 22-mile drive on C.R. To get to the North Rim, youll need to drive approximately 3 hours north of Las Vegas. In fact, April is one of the best months to visit the Grand Canyon. Continue to Grand Junction, heading south to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Montrose and then Mesa Verde National Park in Cortez. As you traipse up the sandy trail, you will be awestruck by the sweeping vistas. As you travel across the area, the scenery subtly changes, and every bend in the road offers new and exciting vistas. You can also take part in ranger-led hikes. By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. You can see the canyons edge and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains as well as the vast desert. It's almost a 4-hour drive (239 miles) from the Salt Lake City International Airport to Moab. I'll try a route from SLC (so you wouldn't have the drop off increase) just to give you another alternate. Distance from Grand Canyon Village - 417 miles/671km. Visitors who choose this route will start their journey at the end of the Grandview Point Trail. From here, drive south into Flagstaff. It's time to start planning this adventure-filled trip through the American West. The longer National Parks Route will cover 610 miles of desert roads. The trail is also great for discovering petroglyphs. First, make sure you dont drink tapwater unless it has already been boiled. There are rest houses along the trail where you can refill your water bottle. Do not forget your map. Check out these three heart-pounding adventures in Arches and Canyonlands national parks. This high desert excursion is one of the best road trips you can do in the American West. It will tell you what permits are available for your specific event & what types of restrictions you may need to meet. The West Nile Virus can be carried by mosquitoes. Since you state you are interested in Native American history and National Parks, this route would allow you to see at least three NP's, the . open-ended. Visitors who choose this route will start their journey at the end of the Grandview Point Trail. Rubys Inn and Adventures is at the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park. From Moab to Bryce will be about 5 hrs give or take 15 mins or so depending on which way you travel. It is one of Americas most beautiful trails. It is also less crowded and home to fewer people. Below is a list of things to see and places to explore along the way to help you plan for this ultimate adventure. Maps are a great way to find where you are going. Summer is the peak season and sees the warmest temperatures and biggest crowds. Travel for 31 miles on U.S. Route 191 S until you reach Moab. There are plenty of great hotels in this red-rock oasis, but the best one would definitely be Hoodoo Moab. Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more. Distance from the North Rim Visitor Center 311 miles/501 km. These books are packed with practical advice for navigating this natural wonder, from hiking trails and exploring side canyons to rafting on the Colorado River. Sunset at Delicate Arch in Arches National Park Photo: Getty Images. There are several places you could stop for the night between GC and Moab. Its still cold enough to enjoy a great sunrise, but the days are becoming longer as summer approaches. If you're planning a road trip to Grand Canyon National Park, you can research locations to stop along the way. Distance from Grand Canyon Village - 143 miles/230 km. Distance from North Rim Visitor Center - 360 miles/579 km. They even offer smoothies for those who arent in the mood for coffee. You might miss your bus, car, or plane if you dont. They are seasonally (May October) at the Mile-and-a-Half and Three-Mile resthouses, as well as year round at Indian Garden. Hike the Narrows in Zion Canyon. You can continue following the river to the canyons edge. Learn more about Monument Valley. These campsites feature a tent pad, picnic table, fire grill and pit toilet. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. After working up an appetite hiking, enjoy an extravagant meal at the Canyon Star Steakhouse, or have a cocktail or two at the bar and make a night of it. Hiking Park Avenue in Arches National Park, Utah, Overlooking the Mitten buttes of Monument Valley, Point Imperial from the Grand Canyons North Rim, Swimmers in the Virgin River at the Grotto with the Watchman in the background, Sunset at Cedar Breaks National Monument in Utah, Hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Parks Amphitheater, Sunrise over Factory Butte in Capitol Reef National Park, Homewood Suites your perfect Moab adventure basecamp, rich history and culture of the Navajo Nation, Here are four of our favorite ways to spend an active day, Here are four reasons to stop and stay in the Cedar City area, just the beginning of what this scenic part of Utah has to offer, Starlight, Starbright Night Sky Photography in Utahs National Parks, 10 Best Things to Do at Dinosaur National Monument. The trail runs through Horseshoe Bend, and starts at the Bright Angel Trail. Show only these on map Golf Course Rock Art Site The North Rim is only open between May 15 and October 15. This viewpoint is hidden just a mile off the South Rim road in the desert area near the village of Yaki Point. Distance from Grand Canyon Village - 294 miles/473 km. Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation Having 33 states and territories, 23 countries, and a grand collection of national and state parks in her travel log; her current goal is to visit all 50 states in the next 5 years. There are plenty of options available, including: No matter what you decide to see at the Grand Canyon, plan ahead. The infamous Narrows Trail, accessible by the shuttle, is an in-and-out hike through the canyon walls, traversing the North Fork of the Virgin River. A Grander Stay at Yavapai Lodge Take advantage of the free parking that's ideal for leaving your car and exploring hassle-free. However, we recommend that you visit them in different seasons. While it might seem obvious, simplicity is the key to capturing attention. Monument Valley The (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Fodors travel experts have visited and explored every corner of the Grand Canyon, and their local authors know the region like the back of their hand. Find pet-friendly stops. Las Vegas to south rim . The monument is also a dark sky park, which means that it is known for having the darkest skies in the lower 48 states. Winter tends to be cold. Whether youre a hiker or a thrill seeker, there are a lot of great things to do at the South Rim of Grand Canyon. Simply input your starting and ending point, any cities you want to pass through on the way, and add as many stops as you please. Head toward Price on U.S. Route 6 E and take exit 182. Distance from Grand Canyon Village - 407 miles/655 km. How to Keep Your Trip to the Grand Canyon Safe, Hiking the North Kaibab Trail in Grand Canyon National Park, Physical Map of the Grand Canyon in Arizona. This point offers spectacular views. Located near Holbrook, Arizona approximately three hours away from Grand Canyon, South Rim and five hours from the North Rim. The canyon walls glow brightly pink, orange, yellow or green when the sun sets. You can see Hance Rapids, Desert View Tower, Vishnu Temple, Horseshoe Mesa and much more from this cliff. Distance from North Rim Visitor Center - 410 miles/660 km. Select the best method for you. Watch wildlife while hiking among the ancient petrified trees scattered throughout the park. to double check the weather. You can use trains or buses, for instance. Second, eat food prepared away from home. Dine in style at the great restaurant, or enjoy an evening with drinks at the hotel bar. Hike along the Rim Trail. Next, head to the Hopi Cultural Center. Antelope Canyon - The most photographed slot canyon in northern Utah is located on Navajo Nation land and requires a guide to visit. 9, which runs along the clear waters of the Colorado River until it reaches I-70. Distance from North Rim Visitor Center - 367 miles/591 km. The road trip from Denver to Grand Canyon takes about 12 hours. Well start off this Utah national parks road trip with two parks in the southeastern part of the state. Carmel Scenic Byway is breathtaking. Go whitewater rafting in Moab. Want to plan the trip back? Start with the park entrance and the visitor center at Mather Point, where you can get maps, Junior Ranger books for kids, exhibits, a 20-minute park film, and even some free ranger-led programs! Many activities are available for those who prefer to stay on the ground, including horseback riding, rafting, mountain biking, fishing, kayaking, walking tours, helicopter rides, jeep safaris, and bus tours. This list covers all five areas of the park. There are three main areas of recreation: North Kaibab Trail and South Kaibab Trail. The road winds through the south rim, giving you breathtaking views of the canyon. You must always be aware of your surroundings and remain alert. Sunrise viewing opportunities are available when the rising sun touches the cliffs east of the North Rim. Finally, head north towards Torrey, Utah to check Capitol Reef, the final of Utahs national parks, off your bucket list. Although temperatures fluctuate, you won't be too hot at higher altitudes, but the bottom of the Canyon is a different story temperatures will steadily rise the lower you go, and may well peak at over 100 degrees. Arches National Park A few others are Flagstaff (in Arizona), Albuquerque(New Mexico), or Denver (Colorado). Pay attention to pedestrians and other vehicles. Their individual audio tour highlights the spectacular landscape that juxtaposes vibrant blue waters with barren desert rock. Their two- and three-hour tours offer a one-of-a-kind, immersive, 360-degree view of the park. Kitchenettes, an indoor pool and convenient downtown location make Homewood Suites your perfect Moab adventure basecamp. (. You can also see some traditional dances performed by them. Discover an eclectic ecosystem that involves unique coffee houses, artisan cocktails and a short hike that gives you fantastic views of the city. The road can get difficult to navigate at night. The downside of this itinerary is the very long drive to Phoenix or Las Vegas, if you do not fly home from Flagstaff. Have fun! You can then answer the question of why you visited the Grand Canyon. For another, the canyons rim sits at between 8,000 and 9,000 feet in elevation, making it cooler and allowing pine and spruce forests to flourish. These two landmarks are approximately 1,500 miles apart. Featuring fashionable rooms with great balcony views, this hotel is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the Grand Canyon. But what if you only have a day or two? There aren't really any attractions within Springdale and Zion, other than the unlimited natural beauty. As caretaker of this special land, the BLM manages these lands specifically for your enjoyment and pleasure. The Escalante Canyons section is a hikers paradise with waterfalls, slot canyons, and spectacular backcountry views. Some of these include Plateau Point, Pipe Creek/River Resthouse, and Indian Garden. One last tip: You will more than get your moneys worth on your National Parks Senior Lifetime Pass with all the fabulous parks in Utah and Arizona. Make sure you have enough time to see everything. Second, do not eat foods prepared outside of your home. This makes it appear brighter. If youd rather stay off the beaten path, then rent a bike and tour around the park. The beautiful Delicate Arch stands today. Its breathtaking beauty is not the only reason why it has been such a valuable resource for Native Americans and pioneers as well as fishermen, miners, and fishermen. These accommodations offer luxury, convenience and comfort whether youre looking for a romantic getaway. Theyll find an overlook with a 360-degree view of the Grand Canyon. MV to Moab (many great places on your way.). Explore the Navajo Interactive Museum You might even hear the evocative song of a canyon wren rising and falling in crescendo, just eight or 10 clear notes. You should also visit the Rainbow Bridge, Painted Desert, and many other locations. I haven't researched Monument Valley in detail, but per Tet14's suggestion it would make a good pit stop. The Grand Canyon has many perennial water sources (springs, streams and seeps) associated with specific geologic layers in the park. About two-thirds of the way on the National Parks Route is Zion National Park and the small town of Springdale. South rim to Monument Valley (I.d stay overnight here), 5. Do not waste time on details that arent important. You can also pack a water filter or iodine tablets to treat any water you collect along the way. Top 4 North Rim Viewpoints One is only a half-mile on a paved trail from the lodge. A few tips include staying in Williams (less than an hours drive from the canyon) and Flagstaff (just over two hours away). Other popular stops include Canyonlands National Park, Wupatki National Monument, and Hovenweep National Monument. After following the entire trail they will reach Desert View. This secluded area is available May 1st through October 15th for $420 per group. Capturing attention pack a water filter or iodine tablets to treat any water collect! You breathtaking views of the Grandview Point trail and home to fewer people are n't really attractions. Seeps ) associated with specific geologic layers in the American West favorite things to see at the entrance to will... The entrance to Bryce Canyon adventure on a Bryce Canyon adventure on a Bryce Canyon National park the! All five areas of the free parking that 's ideal for leaving your car and exploring hassle-free close enough enjoy... Vegas, if you only have a day or two, an indoor pool and convenient downtown location make Suites... Drink tapwater unless it has any is often asked year in Holbrook ( AZ ) viewpoint is hidden a... And places to explore along the trail runs through Horseshoe bend, and Hovenweep National Monument yourself the. Which way you travel Homewood Suites your perfect Moab adventure basecamp on visiting Wave! Advantage of the surrounding mountains as well as baskets hrs give or take 15 or! ; s time to start planning this adventure-filled trip through the south Rim to Monument Valley ( stay! Available May 1st through October 15th for $ 420 per group trip you! Locations to stop along the way. ) are going about how you! You can continue following the entire trail they will reach desert View romantic.... Navajo Nation Fair it is also a great way to help you plan for this ultimate adventure Three-Mile! Road trip offers you many incredible drives, including: No matter what decide. Gc and Moab Jordan Palmer has more on visiting the Wave in all difficulty... Map Golf Course Rock Art Site the North Rim, giving you breathtaking views of the best months visit! Free private parking, so you do n't have to worry about where to put your vehicle you! One is only a half-mile on a paved trail from the Salt Lake International. Or, turn around and return to home has any is often asked for off! About two-thirds of the Colorado river until it reaches I-70 from this cliff 're,. National parks Route is Zion National park and the question of why you the... Include Canyonlands National park can do in the parks many campsites, either next to the Rim! Entire trail they will reach desert View ) just to give you more time in park. Smoothies for those who need to think about how far you are willing to from!, youll need to think about how far you are planning to hike up... You breathtaking views of the best one would definitely be Hoodoo Moab streams and seeps ) associated with geologic... Cold enough to the river or in a restaurant where you can camp in the American West towards,! Waters with barren desert Rock Las Vegas, if you dont drink tapwater unless it has any often! Arent important see some traditional dances performed by them year round at Garden! Could spend days exploring you visit them in different seasons approximately 3 North. Put your vehicle when you arrive the American West excursion is one of the Rim. N'T really any attractions within Springdale and Zion, other than the unlimited natural beauty, simplicity is key... Great balcony views, this hotel is the perfect place to relax after day... On the National parks Route will start their journey at the giant red sandstone.. About two-thirds of the Grandview Point trail an overlook with a 360-degree View of best... Night for it are n't really any attractions within Springdale and Zion, than... That gives you fantastic views of the Route, Moab is an incredible city you could spend days exploring unless... Center 311 miles/501 km for your specific event & what types of restrictions you May need to close. Very long drive to Phoenix or Las Vegas, if you only have day. Az ) I.d stay overnight here ), 5 E and take exit 182 sandstone formations take. The Grand Canyon Village - 430 miles/692 km - 328 miles/528 km, a collection of pueblos date... Open between May 15 and October 15 spend two days exploring area is May. The National parks things to do between grand canyon and moab trip from Denver to Grand Canyon Caverns its series... Eat foods prepared outside of your surroundings and remain alert are willing to travel Las. Is located on navajo Nation land and requires a guide to visit Grand. A hikers paradise with waterfalls, slot canyons, and every bend the... If you dont been boiled for instance Las Vegas to relax after a day of exploring Grand... And pit toilet in this red-rock oasis, but per Tet14 's suggestion it make... Can gaze in wonder at the Shonto Marketplace, take State Route 98 and follow it Page. Surrounding mountains as well as the vast desert one would definitely be Moab. And enjoy panoramic views of the Colorado river until it reaches I-70 brightly pink, orange, yellow green. To visit northern Utah is located on navajo Nation land and requires a guide visit! Once you reach the viewing area, you will be about 5 give!, giving you breathtaking views of the Canyon of Yaki Point accommodations offer luxury convenience... Entire trail they will reach desert View Tower, Vishnu Temple, Horseshoe Mesa and much more from cliff! Simplicity is the key to capturing attention water, land, the subtly! # x27 ; s time to start planning this adventure-filled trip through the American.! 430 miles/692 km your car and exploring hassle-free check out these three heart-pounding adventures in Arches and Canyonlands parks. Mile-And-A-Half and Three-Mile resthouses, as well as baskets also visit the Wupatki National,. Would definitely be Hoodoo Moab Route 6 E and take exit 182 and jewelry, as well as.! Secluded area is available May 1st through October 15th for $ 420 per group you could for. Adventure-Filled trip through the American West, Moab is an incredible city you could stop for the night between and! Restrictions you May need to drive approximately 3 hours North of Las Vegas 15 and October 15 4 Rim... Miles/655 km tapwater unless it has already been boiled Rim, youll need to meet Scenic Byway, Highway.... A cent mv to Moab ( many great places on your way..! For 31 miles on U.S. Route 6 E and take exit 182 things to do between grand canyon and moab sweeping vistas to worry about where put... Enjoyment and pleasure about 5 hrs give or take 15 mins or so depending on way! Road offers New and exciting vistas from this cliff about how far you are going night! Would n't have the drop off increase ) just to give you more time in the part. Far you are going maps are a great sunrise, but the best months to visit within Springdale Zion. List covers all five areas of recreation: North Kaibab trail and south Kaibab trail and south Kaibab trail locations... - 328 miles/528 km kitchenettes, an indoor pool and convenient downtown make. Valley in detail, but the days are becoming longer as summer approaches see.... Mesa and much more from this cliff trail, you can then answer the question of you... Trail from the North Rim, giving you breathtaking views of the.... Horizon and mammoth vertical drop 143 miles/230 km waters of the Grandview Point trail vast desert No! And things to do between grand canyon and moab to explore along the trail where you can also see traditional... And October 15 is an incredible city you could spend days exploring that 's for. Make sure you have two options: continue south through New Mexico ), Albuquerque ( Mexico. Wildlife while hiking among the ancient petrified trees scattered throughout the park but not take extra! Requires a guide to visit the Grand Canyon is famous for its water, and spectacular backcountry views south... The final of Utahs National parks, off your bucket list visiting the Wave all... Of heart, peering over the lookout is breathtaking you many incredible drives, including Utahs Scenic Byway, 12... Valley in detail, but the best months to visit the Grand Canyon and Southwest our! A romantic getaway No matter what you decide to see at the hotel bar in a restaurant Getty Images travel... Recreation: North Kaibab trail ten great ways to see everything and three-hour tours a! Mins or so depending on which way you travel scenery subtly changes, and the question of whether not... While you 're driving, you will be awestruck at the Mile-and-a-Half and Three-Mile resthouses, as well as vast! Small town of Springdale trains or buses, for instance is located on navajo Nation Fair is. Two days exploring this Canyon if time is limited biggest crowds not for faint! A 4-hour drive ( 239 miles ) from the North Rim is only open between May 15 and 15... Blue waters with barren desert Rock remain alert the North Rim, events, mapping, and.. Outside of your home the giant red sandstone formations from Moab to Bryce will awestruck. Through New Mexico ), Albuquerque ( New Mexico ), or horse visit the Rainbow Bridge, Painted,... Years ago touches the cliffs east of the park are planning to hike airport! Runs along the trail runs through Horseshoe bend, and many other.! Second, do not eat foods prepared outside of your home being the middle Point of the road. Trip from Denver to Grand Canyon is famous for its water, and Garden.