Las Vegas To The Grand Canyon : The Ultimate Guide
Visiting the Grand Canyon is, in my opinion, a must on any first trip to Las Vegas.
Located only a few hours from the Entertainment Capital of the World, this natural wonder is one of the most visited places in the United States and oh, so worth the drive!
In this post, you will find everything you need to know before traveling from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon.
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ABout the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a steep-sided canyon carved by the Colorado River in the United States in the state of Arizona. It is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and is internationally famous.
The canyon is about 277 miles (446 km) long, ranges in width from 4 to 18 miles (6.4 to 29 km), attains a depth of over 1 mile (1.6 km), and offers the most spectacular landscapes, with geologic features that include but are not limited to river valleys, canyons, plateaus, mesas, and buttes.
How far is Las Vegas from the Grand Canyon?
The distance between Vegas and the Grand Canyon depends on which side of the canyon you plan to visit.
The drive from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park South Rim is just over 300 miles, and it can be completed in around six hours, depending on traffic conditions. Of course, that time also depends on how many stops you plan to make along the way.
On the other hand, the distance between the Grand Canyon West Rim and Las Vegas is only 125 miles, and the drive takes approximately 2 hours and a half.
When to visit the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas
The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is during the spring and fall when the temperatures are milder.
However, if you’re looking for fewer crowds, I would suggest visiting in the winter (summer is the most popular time of the year to visit the canyon).
During winter, the temperatures are great for hiking and never too cold.
How to get from Vegas to the Grand Canyon
The Vegas and Grand Canyon route goes through some of America’s most stunning landscapes, including dramatic red rock formations and winding mountain roads.
There are a few different options when it comes to traveling from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon: car, bus, train, airplane, or helicopter.
Helicopter tour
The helicopter tour offers by far the best views of the canyon.
The tours usually last around 4 hours and include a visit t the West Rim of the canyon and aerial perspective on the majestic grandeur of the Grand Canyon and Colorado River.
On the way, you’ll also see landmarks such as Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Black Canyon, and the Las Vegas strip.
You can see all the most popular Grand Canyon helicopter tours here.
Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon by car
The drive from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon is beautiful, and I highly recommend it.
This road trip is for sure one of the most iconic in the country and takes you through many incredible places such as charming towns on Route 66 and Hoover Dam.
It’s definitely the most flexible option since you’ll have plenty of time to make stops along the way if you want.
Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon by bus
If you don’t feel like driving but still want to see some of the sights on the way, some buses travel between Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon.
The bus tours usually last around 8 hours and include a few stops along the way.
A bus tour is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable way to visit the Grand Canyon without driving.
Flying from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon
Many people do not know this, but it is possible to fly from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon if you are really short on time.
The flight is pretty short and very comfortable. You can see the prices here.
Las Vegas to Grand Canyon by train
Riding the Grand Canyon Railway is one of the most scenic ways of getting to the Grand Canyon.
From Las Vegas, you should depart the Gray Line Tour Center in Las Vegas to tide ride Amtrak’s Thruway bus service to Kingman, Arizona, where you will board a train to Williams, Arizona.
From there, the Grand Canyon Railway will take you on a 12 trip through some of the most beautiful sceneries in Arizona all the way to the Grand Canyon South Rim.
What to see on the way to the Grand Canyon
There are plenty of things to see on the way from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. This area of the country is known for its amazing red rock formations and stunning landscapes.
Here are a few of my favorite stops along the way:
Valley of Fire State Park
The world-renowned Valley of Fire State Park is a beautiful state park and geologic wonderland located about an hour northeast of Las Vegas.
The park is known for its red sandstone formations and 6,000 acres of red Aztec sandstone, which make for some amazing photos.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park in Utah is a beautiful national park located about two and a half hours from Las Vegas.
The park is known for its epic hiking trails, dramatic canyons, and beautiful landscapes.
Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam was constructed between 1931 and 1936, and the power plant was the world’s largest hydroelectric station from 1939 to 1949. The dam was named after President Herbert Hoover and played a vital role in the water management of the southwest United States
This iconic dam is a must-see for any trip to Nevada.
Lake Mead
With more than 750 miles of shoreline, Lake Mead is America’s largest reservoir.
This reservoir is located just south of Hoover Dam and is a great place for a picnic, swim, or just enjoying a nice day on the beach when it’s warm enough.
The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign
To begin this epic day trip from Vegas, why not stop at one of the city’s most iconic spots on your way out?
The Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign is located just a few minutes from the Strip and is a great place to snap a selfie before hitting the open road.
Pro-tip: there is absolutely no need to stay in line for a picture with the sign. All you need to do is go a few steps to the side for a great angle for a shot.
Other ideias
If you’re looking for more ideas for your Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon trip:
In addition to the places mentioned above, make sure to check out some of the other amazing sights in Nevada and Arizona, like Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and Antelope Canyon. These places are all definitely worth a visit if you have the time! 🙂
Itineraries from Vegas to the Grand Canyon
There are many different itineraries you can follow when traveling from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon, depending on how much time you have.
- Which rim you want to visit
- What stops would you like to make
- How many days
One Day Itinerary
If you only have one day, I would suggest driving from Las Vegas to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. This will allow you to see both the West rims of the canyon in a short amount of time. To choose which one is best for you, some important factors are:
Two Day Itinerary
If you have two days, I would recommend splitting your time between the South and West rims of the Grand Canyon.
This will give you a chance to see both sides of the canyon and also explore some of the amazing sights in between.
If you’re looking for a more detailed itinerary, here are two of my favorites itineraries from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon:
Itinerary 1: Vegas to the Grand Canyon West Rim (around 4 hours with spots)
Stop 1 – Las Vegas
Start your day in Las Vegas as early as possible – around 6 am if you can.
Stop 2 – Hoover Dam
Visit Hoover Dam and learn about its history.
The Hoover Dam is one of the most impressive man-made structures in the United States and is definitely worth visiting.
Stop 3 – Lake Mead
Close to Hoover Dam, Lame Mead is another interesting spot.
Stop 4 – Breakfast in Kingman
Stop by the small town of Kingman for breakfast and some souvenir shopping.
Kingman is known for its Route 66 themed restaurants and old-west feel.
Stop 5 – Grand Canyon West Rim
It’s time to explore the canyon!
Visit the Grand Canyon West Rim and enjoy the views from the canyon’s edge and all its beautiful viewing points.
Itinerary 2: Vegas to the Grand Canyon South Rim – 6 hours
Stop 1 – Oatman
Oatman, Arizona, is a small village located on the iconic Route 66.
Stop by Oatman for a chance to see some donkeys (it’s a thing) roaming the streets and some old-fashioned shops and restaurants.
Stop 2 – Kingman
Kingman is located just a few minutes away from Oatman and the perfect place to stop for lunch.
Stop 3 – Seligman
Seligman is another small town located on Route 66 that is known for its interesting shops and restaurants.
Stop 4 – Grand Canyon Caverns in Peach Springs
The Grand Canyon Caverns in Peach Springs are incredible caves with colorful crystal formations.
Stop 5 – Grand Canyon National Park
Finish your day at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and take in the views of this natural wonder.
Spend the night at this and this hotel and fully explore in the morning.
Best tips for visiting the Grand Canyon from Vegas
1. If you’re visiting the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, I suggest leaving early in the morning to avoid traffic.
2. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you’re driving.
3. Be prepared for the weather. It can be hot during the day and cold at night.
4. Be sure to visit both the South Rim and the West Rim if you have time.
5. If you’re looking for a more affordable way to visit the Grand Canyon, take the bus tour.
6. Stop at some of the amazing sights on the way, like Hoover Dam and Valley of Fire State Park.
7. If you’re looking for a helicopter tour, I recommend booking one with Grand Canyon Helicopters.
Best tours from Vegas to the Grand Canyon
There are many incredible Grand Canyon tours available for you to choose from.
Most of them include hotel pick-ups, lunch, and the general entrance to the park.
45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona
Take an exhilarating helicopter flight that whisks you from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim to the North Rim.
See the world’s largest ponderosa pines in Kaibab National Forest and the mighty Colorado River through the ECO-Star helicopter’s panoramic windows.
Snap photos of the Painted Desert, Desert View Watchtower, Marble Canyon, and Point Imperial before your return flight takes you through the dramatic backdrop of the Dragon Corridor.
Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views
Make the most of limited time and see the highlights of Grand Canyon National Park in just a couple of hours on this sightseeing tour.
Ride in a windowless, open-air Hummer and listen to commentary from your guide as you visit some of the canyon’s best lookout points, where you can hop out, take photos, and explore.
Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour & Hoover Dam Photo Stop with Optional Skywalk
This Grand Canyon day tour has it all! Avoid the crowds at the canyon as this tour picks up from select hotels in a modern luxury bus with restrooms on board, giving you more time to enjoy your destination!
En route to the West Rim and exclusive to this particular tour, you’ll enjoy a hot, sit-down breakfast at a restaurant. This tour also includes a bonus stop at the Hoover Dam Memorial Bridge, where you can capture incredible photos of the Dam!
Grand Canyon Deluxe Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas
Fly from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon in a sightseeing helicopter, touch down deep in the canyon for a Champagne toast, and explore the scenic desert landscape in luxurious style.
Frequently asked questions
To make sure you have all the information required for the trio, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting the Grand Cand Canyon West Rim:
Is it worth driving from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon?
As I previously mentioned, yes, absolutely!
The drive is very scenic, and you can see a lot of incredible sights on the way.
What are the highlights of the drive?
Some of the highlights of the drive include Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, and the Grand Canyon West Rim.
How much time do you need to visit the Grand Canyon?
You can easily visit the Grand Canyon in a day, but if you want to explore more, I would suggest spending at least two days.
If you plan on visiting Zion National Park, I would make sure to have at least an extra half-day for that.
How much does a helicopter tour cost?
Grand Canyon Helicopter tours start at around $300 per person. During your trip to Vegas, keep an eye out for the several discounts offered in the city.
What is the best way to see the Grand Canyon?
Visiting the canyons South Rim will probably give you a more unforgettable experience since that’s where the actual National Park is located,
However, the West Rim is also stunning and much closer to Vegas.
There is no one “best” way to see the Grand Canyon, but I would recommend visiting both the South Rim and West Rim if you have the time.
Wrap-up: Traveling from Vegas to the Grand Canyon
That’s all for now! I hope this post has helped you plan your trip to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas.
Now that you know everything you need to know about traveling from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon, it’s time to start planning your trip!
I hope this post has helped and that you have a wonderful time visiting this amazing natural wonder.
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