It would take an eternity to explore the Grand Canyon in all its incredible vastness on foot — so why not drive instead? There’s a 55-mile route that weaves along the South Rim, featuring the picturesque views we all know and love. Take a look:
Spanning 55 miles, Grand Canyon South Rim Scenic Drive is the quickest way to experience Arizona’s most iconic natural wonder. It’s an adventure perfect for all ages and skill levels since there’s no hiking involved.
AllTrails/DeWayne Hansen Pile the whole family into the car and get ready for some truly epic views.
From Cameron to the Grand Canyon Village, the drive meanders along the South Rim. You’ll encounter several scenic overlooks along the way, in addition to hiking trails that branch off from the main road.
AllTrails/DeWayne Hansen So either stay behind the wheel or explore on foot – the choice is entirely yours.
Perhaps the most popular stopping point on the drive is the Desert View Watchtower.
AllTrails/DeWayne Hansen Built in 1932, the four-story structure is 70 feet tall and boasts an observation deck from which visitors can marvel at the Colorado River and surrounding canyon terrain.
You’ll have a chance to learn about the Native American tribes who have occupied these lands for ages.
AllTrails/DeWayne Hansen Meet the local Navajo people and purchase their handmade goods, visit the Tusayan Museum, and see archaeological ruins, among other incredible opportunities.
As the seasons change, so too does the scenery along the road. No two trips are exactly the same!
AllTrails/Adam Stielstra Even in the dead of winter, with nature at its bleakest, the pale white snow juxtaposed with evergreen trees and rusty canyon walls makes for an absolutely striking view.
Feel free to bring your furry friends along for the ride! Pictures like this are worth a thousand words.
AllTrails/Carley Nelson This probably goes without saying, but exercise caution outside of your vehicle. Steep drop-offs pose an immense danger to unsupervised kids and pets.
Since the drive is point-to-point, you can start at either end.
AllTrails/DeWayne Hansen
AllTrails/DeWayne Hansen
Pile the whole family into the car and get ready for some truly epic views.
So either stay behind the wheel or explore on foot – the choice is entirely yours.
Built in 1932, the four-story structure is 70 feet tall and boasts an observation deck from which visitors can marvel at the Colorado River and surrounding canyon terrain.
Meet the local Navajo people and purchase their handmade goods, visit the Tusayan Museum, and see archaeological ruins, among other incredible opportunities.
AllTrails/Adam Stielstra
Even in the dead of winter, with nature at its bleakest, the pale white snow juxtaposed with evergreen trees and rusty canyon walls makes for an absolutely striking view.
AllTrails/Carley Nelson
This probably goes without saying, but exercise caution outside of your vehicle. Steep drop-offs pose an immense danger to unsupervised kids and pets.
Click here to stay up to date with the latest information. Visit the AllTrails page to learn more about the drive.
Have you ever driven this scenic route? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! Let us know, and check out our previous article for another bucket-list-worthy scenic drive in Arizona.
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Address: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA
