Discover the Grand Canyon - 4 Days
Highlights
- Watch the sunset over the Grand Canyon
- Hike your way through the Grand Canyon's impressive South Rim
- Discover upclose the unique wavy walls of Antelope Canyon
- Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Las Vegas
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Drive from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park | Grand Canyon National Park |
| Day 2 | Explore Grand Canyon National Park | Grand Canyon National Park |
| Day 3 | From the Grand Canyon to Page, Visit Antelope Canyon | Page, Arizona |
| Day 4 | Visit Horseshoe Bend, Drive to Las Vegas | Las Vegas |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park
Today it's time to leave Las Vegas behind and head to one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the country- the Grand Canyon. Settle in for a 4.5-hour drive that traverses 280 miles. About 40 minutes in, you can make a stop at the Hoover Dam. This impressive concrete arch between Arizona and Nevada holds quite a bit of historical importance. You can walk over the dam along the arch bridge and even take a guided tour to learn more about the significance of its construction.
From there, continue along the US-93 S and then the I-40 E for almost 150 miles before stretch your legs in Seligman, and iconic rest stop along Route 66. Grab some lunch at Delgadillo’s Snow Cap for an old-school American diner experience before continuing on the I-40 E. Turn up on AZ-64 N before arriving at the Southern Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
There are two areas you can stay when visiting: Grand Canyon Village or Tusayan. The former is right inside the park and within walking distance to several viewpoints. There are just a few hotels inside Grand Canyon Village, so they fill up fast and can be pricey depending on the season and availability. Tusayan is a town located just a 15-minute drive from the Park and has more hotel and dining options- these tend to be more reasonably priced. With a convenient shuttle bus to take you along the South Rim trail, we recommend staying in Tusayan.
After you've checked in, take the rest of the afternoon to venture out to the South Rim Trail and enjoy your first peek at these stunning views of the Grand Canyon. Settle into a viewpoint along the way and watch the sunset over the south rim. Be sure to pass by Mather Point for sweeping views of the stunning canyon. Head back to Tusayan and grab some dinner at Plaza Bonita, a casual dining spot with tasty Mexican cuisine.
Day 2: Explore Grand Canyon National Park
Take the day to explore the epic beauty of the Grand Canyon on some of its hiking trails. With 1.2 million acres of land inside the park, there is plenty to discover during this full day. Take in sweeping views of the canyon's rim on two main hikes near the South Rim: Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab Trail. They can be done separately, or combined for a challenging full day hike through the Grand Canyon. Bring plenty of water and a packed lunch to take with you.
The South Kaibab Trail is a great option for more moderate to advanced hikers. It's a bit shorter in length than the Bright Angel, covering 6.5 miles total, but descends 4,820 feet total. About a mile into the South Kaibab Trail, after a steep descent, you'll find the aptly named Ooh Ahh Point. As it follows the top of a ridge, the trail offers sweeping views of the canyon, but less shade on hot days. Once you reach the Colorado River at the bottom of the trail, you can return on the same route, or loop back up on the Bright Angel Trail.
The Bright Angel Trail is the classic route for those just looking to get a taste of hiking in the Grand Canyon. The out-and-back trail is 9 miles one-way and ascends just under 5000 ft. This trail is well maintained, runs alongside the Garden Creek canyon side, and you'll find rest stops at 1.5 and 3 miles from the trailhead where drinking water is available. For those looking for a shorter hike option for the day, take the Bright Angel Trail to one of these rest stops before heading back.
After a full day of hiking, reward your efforts with a well-deserved meal. We recommend the Arizona Room restaurant for dinner, located right in Grand Canyon Village, before heading back to your accommodation for the night.
Day 3: From the Grand Canyon to Page, Visit Antelope Canyon
Set out this morning to visit another impressive canyon. We'd recommend leaving early in the morning in order to get to Antelope Canyon before noon. Midday, the light shines overhead and beams of sunlight transcend the canyon, giving it an ethereal look. After checking out of your accommodation, start the 2.5-hour journey in your car to Page, Arizona. For the first part of this 125-mile journey, you'll head along the Desert View Drive of the South Rim, taking in more breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon.
Check into your accommodation in Page before heading out to explore the nearby Antelope Canyon...but first, coffee! Grab a well earned pick-me-up after your early morning at LP Espresso.
Antelope Canyon is not actually a National Park and belongs to the Navajo Indian Reservation, so tours are required to visit. It's best to book ahead online ahead of time, as you'll have few or no options upon arrival. Tour pricing stays the same across the board, and visits to the Upper and Lower Canyon are about 1.5 hours each regardless of the tour company you choose.
The Upper Antelope Canyon is considered the more picturesque of the two, but for that same reason it has pricier entrance tickets. Pictures you've likely seen of the canyon, with light beams shining through waves of rocks, were probably taken in the Upper Canyon around midday. The Lower Canyon is still beautiful and the more affordable of the two. The Lower Canyon is also wider, more open to natural sunlight, and offers a fun climbing experience, including steep ladders. If you have the time, choose the combo tour that includes visits to both and compare for yourself!
Once back in Page, you've likely worked up an appetite. Grab an early dinner at Big John's Texas BBQ for a local feel and some good eats before heading back to your hotel.
Day 4: Visit Horseshoe Bend, Drive to Las Vegas
Before leaving Page, stop by Horseshoe Bend for a magnificent view. Give yourself about an hour to loop around the 1.5-mile trail and linger at the lookout point. Expect to pay a $10 parking fee and be prepared for a steep climb at the start of the short trail- carrying water is highly recommended. The viewpoint of this infamous curved portion of the Colorado River faces due west, making it a popular spot for sunset viewing as well. Getting there in the morning, however, you will find the spot to be far less crowded and illuminated with natural light, making for an excellent picture and a peaceful experience.
Jump back in your car to start the journey back to Las Vegas. About an hour in to your drive, make a stop in Kanab at Rocking V Cafe for lunch, a local spot with classic American comfort food and vegan-friendly options in an art-filled locale. From there, continue on for another 3 hours on the I-15 S before reaching Las Vegas.
Finish off your trip with a final night in Vegas. Catch the fountain show in front of the Bellagio Hotel and grab drinks at the Clique Bar & Lounge to round out your evening.
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