{"id":11667,"date":"2023-12-01T14:11:48","date_gmt":"2023-12-01T14:11:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/?p=11667"},"modified":"2024-02-08T14:36:32","modified_gmt":"2024-02-08T14:36:32","slug":"winter-grand-canyon","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sixt.com\/magazine\/road-trips\/winter-grand-canyon\/","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Winter Road Trip to The Grand Canyon"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The Grand Canyon is a natural rock formation in Arizona<\/a> (as if it needed any introduction) and as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, it attracts around five million visitors annually. Visiting this natural phenomenon<\/a> in winter has a host of benefits from smaller crowds, clearer skies for stargazing, and potentially, unique snow-covered scenery to admire and photograph.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you want to take a road trip to The Grand Canyon, we\u2019ve done the hard work for you and put together the ultimate winter road trip, expected to take 5-7 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Grand Canyon Winter Road Trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

This road trip starts in Phoenix<\/a>, Arizona, if you\u2019re flying into the city we have rental car centers at Phoenix Airport<\/a>, so you can head off on your adventure to the Grand Canyon as soon as you land.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phoenix to Sedona<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

From Phoenix take the 2-2.5 hour drive to Sedona via Interstate 17 (I-17) North. Sedona is home to the iconic red sandstone formations and the Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive is the perfect way to take in the beautiful scenery with your rental car<\/a>. The famous red rocks can appear to glow red or orange in the setting sun, truly a sight to behold. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Explore Slide Rock State Park, the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and numerous art galleries in Sedona. Those looking to indulge in some relaxation can make the most of Sedona\u2019s spa and wellness facilities or if you decide to stay the night visit the Verde Valley region and enjoy some wine tasting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sedona to Flagstaff<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The next stop on your road trip to the Grand Canyon is the city of Flagstaff. Just a 45 minute-1 hour drive from Sedona taking the State Route 89A (AZ-89A) North. Be aware that Flagstaff has a significantly higher altitude than Sedona, leading to lower temperatures – so make sure you\u2019ve packed plenty of warm clothing! Flagstaff is home to Lowell Observatory and is known for some of the best stargazing in the U.S. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Discover Coconino National Forest<\/a> for hiking and cycling or experienced hikers can tackle San Francisco Peaks – the highest mountain range in Arizona. Flagstaff has something for everyone, the whole family can enjoy a live performance at The Orpheum Theater or immerse themselves in history and culture at the Museum of Northern Arizona. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Flagstaff to Grand Canyon National Park<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

After exploring Flagstaff, it\u2019s time to head to the main event: The Grand Canyon<\/a>, driving on the US-180 West, this journey will take you 1.5 to 2 hours. Be aware that you will need to pay an entrance fee to enter The Grand Canyon National Park – you can see up-to-date fees and information on the National Parks Service website.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From guided walks and tours to an array of hotels and lodges to reside in, there\u2019s plenty to learn and do at Grand Canyon National Park<\/a> so you can take your time and make the most of your road trip. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A day at the Grand Canyon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can easily spend a full day exploring the Grand Canyon and all the national park has to offer. The Grand Canyon is split into two rims: North and South. The South Rim is the most popular as it is more accessible and at a lower elevation. There are a number of viewpoints such as Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Hopi Point, where you can admire the expansive view and even see the Colorado River. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over on the west you can discover the Grand Canyon Skywalk<\/a>, although hours are reduced in the winter this is still a must-see attraction as you can see breathtaking views on the glass edge. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The North Rim is higher and more likely to receive snow, so depending on how far into winter we are this route may not be open, however, if it is – you\u2019re in for a treat. The North Rim attracts smaller crowds and offers a different perspective of the Grand Canyon. Either rim offers spectacular views and with hiking trails, visitor services, and a range of activities, you\u2019re sure to have a fun-filled experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Things to Know Before Your Grand Canyon Winter Road Trip<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Visiting the Grand Canyon in the winter can be a unique experience as you get to see different views from the summer months and have a much more tranquil visit as crowds are much smaller. However, there are some things you must take into consideration before packing up and heading off on your road trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n