Thinking about taking a side trip from Route 66 to see one of the most jaw-dropping sights in the world? Well, you’re in for a treat! The Grand Canyon National Park is only a short drive off the Mother Road and makes for a perfect day trip. A Route 66 Grand Canyon detour is the kind of trip you’ll never forget, with panoramic views, towering rock formations, and trails that make you feel like you’re on another planet. And the best part? You can still be back on Route 66 by sunset, ready to keep cruising down the road.
This day trip itinerary will take you from Route 66’s scenic stops in either Williams or Flagstaff and straight into Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim. You’ll find suggestions on how to fill your day in a way that will maximize your adventure on a short time frame. Whether you’re after the classic postcard views or hidden canyon gems, this itinerary has you covered with everything you need for a perfect quick Grand Canyon detour.
So, grab your camera, lace up your walking shoes, and let’s hit the road for a day that combines the iconic nostalgia of Route 66 with the unforgettable natural wonder of the Grand Canyon.
Route 66 Grand Canyon Detour: Day Trip Itinerary
If you only have time in your Route 66 itinerary to take a day trip to the Grand Canyon from Williams or Flagstaff, I recommend starting as early as you can. Getting to the park by sunrise gives you some of the best views with some of the smallest crowds. You don’t have to fight for a parking spot or the best camera angle.
Get up early, set your GPS to the South Rim entrance, and take the drive. It’s only about an hour to an hour and a half from Williams or Flagstaff, quicker if you stay at one of the hotels a little closer to the park.
As you approach the entrance you’ll see the lines to enter. If you get to the park and there is no one manning the booth there’s a convenient machine that will allow you to purchase your ticket and enter. Keep driving until you near the Visitor Center and the parking lots. Pull over, park your car, and get ready for a fun day trip adventure!
Take in the Views on Rim Trail and Mather Point
Rim Trail is one of the best walks in the Grand Canyon. Stretching 12.8 miles from the South Kaibab Trailhead to Hermits Rest, the stretch offers spectacular views of the canyon below.
It’s an easy, defined path with frequent overlooks, so you can stop to soak up the scenery. Start your day at the Grand Canyon getting acquainted with the park by taking a .7 mile stroll on Rim Trail between Mather Point and Yavapai Point. It will start right at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center with the edge of the of the canyon just steps away.
Take you time winding between the overlooks of Mather Point for awe-inspiring views of the Grand Canyon. Named after Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service, this spot is perfect for memorable landscapes and fantastic photos. If you get there early enough to enjoy the sunrise you’ll be greeted with a glowing vista ripe with a menagerie of pastel colors and treated to a not-as-crowded experience as you would have at this same spot later in the day.
After taking it all in, continue your walk to Yavapai Point and Yavapai Museum of Geology. For geology buffs, or anyone wanting a little shade on a hot day, Yavapai Point is a must-see. The Yavapai Museum of Geology, perched on the canyon’s edge, dives into the 2-billion-year-old history of this natural wonder.
Inside, you’ll find 3D models, interpretive panels, and a topographic relief map that lets you see the canyon’s layers come to life. The museum also boasts large windows with panoramic canyon views, making it a top spot for photos. Step outside to the amphitheater even more breathtaking views.
Once you’ve seen everything you want to see at Yavapai Point, it’s time to head back where you came from. Turn around and start walking back or hop on a Kaibab/Rim Route Orange shuttle bus to take you back to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.
Grand Canyon Visitor Center
Once you’re back to the start it’s a good time to visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. Of course, you can always start your journey here if you arrive later in the day. But the center doesn’t open until 8:00am or 9:00am, so, if you were trying to beat the crowds and catch the sunset, it might not quite be open when you arrive at the park.
The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is a one-stop shop for park info and advice on making the most of your visit. Get your bearings with exhibits on the Grand Canyon’s rich natural and human history, grab a brochure, or chat with a park expert to plan your day. You’ll also find two free 24-minute films to dive deeper into the canyon’s story. We Are Grand Canyon showcases the heritage of the 11 tribal communities who’ve called this area home, while Grand Canyon: A Journey of Wonder offers a scenic journey from rim to river.
Outside the Visitor Center, sidewalk signs and kiosks give you maps, shuttle bus info, and trip tips for when you’re ready to hit the trail.
Just across from the Visitor Center, the Grand Canyon Conservancy Park Store is the place for canyon-inspired books, maps, apparel, and souvenirs to remember your trip. Get your National Parks Passport stamped, or grab a Junior Ranger book and badge for the kids to take home a piece of the adventure.
Grab a Coffee at Bright Angel Bicycles & Café
Bright Angel Bicycles & Café is the perfect spot to fuel up before the rest of your day. They serve up locally roasted coffee, along with grab-and-go bites like sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Pick up a cup of brewed coffee, a latte, a mocha, or a dirty chai to give you the caffeine boost you’ll need for the next part of your journey. And try a ham and cheese croissant or breakfast burrito for that fuel you need to get you going.
Enjoy your breakfast sitting outside and people watching while reading your pamphlet to prepare for the rest of the day. There are no food or drinks allowed on the shuttle buses so you’ll need to take this moment to relax and enjoy your time.
Explore the Hermit Road Scenic Overlooks
For the rest of your time at the Grand Canyon, explore Hermit Road all the breathtaking scenic overlooks along the way.
From the Visitor Center head to the bus terminal and find a Blue Village Route bus. Take that five stops to the Hermits Rest Route Transfer stop where you’ll switch to a Red Hermits Rest Route bus. This bus only runs in the warmer months (March 1 through November 30) so if you’re visiting December through April, you’ll have to drive it yourself.
Hermit Road winds 7 scenic miles from the Grand Canyon Village Historic District to Hermits Rest, with nine overlooks along the rim offering some of the park’s best views. The shuttle bus runs an 80-minute round-trip loop, making nine stops on the way out and four on the way back. But be sure to plan to spend much more that 80 minutes on this route to get off at each stop and explore.
You can hop off the bus at any every stop along the way and either hop back on the bus to take you to the next stop or walk in between any of them. The distances between range from .3 to 1.8 miles so pick and choose whichever, if any, distances you want to cover on foot. Here are all the lookouts to look out for on Hermit Road:
- Transfer Station: The start of the Hermit Road shuttle and Rim Trail, with a steep hill offering striking views of the Bright Angel Fault.
- Trailview Overlook: This overlook gives a glimpse of the Bright Angel Trail switchbacks and Historic Village District, including El Tovar Hotel.
- Maricopa Point: Enjoy sweeping canyon vistas and spot the old Orphan Lode Mine site from here.
- Powell Point: A tribute to explorer John Wesley Powell, this overlook boasts broad, panoramic views of the canyon.
- Hopi Point: A favorite for sunrise and sunset with restroom facilities, this point has expansive views to the east and west.
- Mohave Point: Perfect for dawn or dusk, this viewpoint reveals the Colorado River as it winds below.
- The Abyss: A dramatic viewpoint with a near-vertical drop into Monument Creek, offering a peek at Granite Rapids below.
- Monument Creek Vista: The start of the accessible Greenway Trail, open to hikers, cyclists, and wheelchair users.
- Pima Point: Known for sights and sounds of Granite Rapids, this spot along the Greenway Trail leads toward Hermits Rest.
final destination on Hermit Road is Hermits Rest, a rustic 1914 structure designed by Mary Colter to resemble an old miner’s cabin. Built from native stone and logs, with a front porch and a massive alcove fireplace, Hermits Rest is now a gift shop and snack bar.
From here you can get back on the East-bound Hermits Rest Red shuttle bus. Note that it only makes four stops (Pima Point, Mohave Point, Powell Point, and the Village Route Transfer) on the way back, so plan accordingly if you wanted to split up your stops.
Have Lunch at Grand Canyon Village
From here you can transfer back to the Visitor Center and start heading back to Route 66, but, if you have more time, this is a great time to explore the Grand Canyon Village area and grab some lunch. You’ve earned it after a long morning of exploring!
The Village Historic District at the South Rim takes visitors back to the early 1900s when Grand Canyon tourism was just beginning. This area was built up after the first steam-powered train from the Santa Fe Railway arrived in 1901, sparking a boom as crowds flocked to see the Grand Canyon’s dramatic vistas. Key sites include the luxurious El Tovar Hotel (1905), an opulent retreat for train travelers, and the cozy Bright Angel Lodge, designed by Mary Colter to blend into the canyon’s rugged beauty. Other landmarks include Hopi House, built in the style of Native American pueblos, and the historic Grand Canyon Railway Depot, one of the last log-built train depots in the U.S. With scenic overlooks and classic structures, the Village Historic District is a vibrant mix of history and natural splendor, offering a window into the canyon’s early tourism days and plenty of stops to explore.
If you’re in the mood for something classic, one option for lunch is the legendary El Tovar Dining Room. Opened in 1905, this historic eatery serves up Southwestern-inspired fare with a stunning view. Treat yourself to their Navajo tacos or the ever-popular French dip—a warm, satisfying meal to fuel your canyon explorations. Plus, with its cozy, rustic vibe, you might feel like you’ve stepped back into a golden age of travel.
For a more casual option, swing by Bright Angel Lodge. The Bright Angel Fountain serves up quick bites, from juicy burgers to grab-and-go sandwiches. It’s perfect if you’re eager to keep moving and don’t want to miss a single sight. Or stop at the Fred Harvey Burger joint, where you’ll find classic American fare served with a side of canyon history.
After a quick walk around the village and a hearty road trip meal, it’s time to hit the road. Take the Village Route Blue bus back to the Visitor Center, and your car, to head back to Route 66!
Beyond a Day Trip
The entire itinerary above should take around six to eight hours of time (not including driving from Route 66) and gives you a mix of stunning views, light hikes, and history while getting you to and from Route 66 in a good amount of time. Have a little more time to spend at Grand Canyon? Consider adding Desert View Drive to your itinerary.
Desert View Drive is a scenic, 25-mile journey along the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, boasting some of the most sweeping views of the canyon. Starting from Grand Canyon Village this route winds toward the iconic Desert View Watchtower, dotted with breathtaking overlooks and plenty of spots for memorable photos. For those looking to explore the canyon by car, Desert View Drive promises a series of unforgettable vistas and experiences at every turn.
For those wanting to take on an extra challenge, the Grand Canyon South Rim also offers longer hikes that reward intrepid explorers with unmatched views and a deeper connection to this ancient landscape. Paths like the South Kaibab Trail, Bright Angel Trail, and Grandview Trail are not for the novice, or those on a tight timeframe, but will add another level of adventure and beauty to your trip.
Stops Between Route 66 and the Grand Canyon
Taking the route from Route 66 to the Grand Canyon goes beyond just what to see in the park to what to see outside the park. Here are some of the best stops to make between the Grand Canyon and Route 66.
Bearizona Wildlife Park
Just outside Williams, Bearizona is a drive-through wildlife park where you can get up close and personal with North American animals, from black bears and bison to playful otters and majestic wolves. It’s perfect if you want a unique wildlife experience without going too far off Route 66.
Flintstones Bedrock City
If you’re up for some kitschy fun, make a detour to Flintstones Bedrock City, right between Route 66 in Williams and the national park. Originally a theme park, this spot has plenty of photo ops with cartoon-inspired buildings and statues that transport you right into the Stone Age. It’s the kind of quirky roadside stop Route 66 is famous for and great for a quick laugh or some silly photos.
The Little Colorado River Overlook
Before or after reaching the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, take a slight detour to the Little Colorado River Overlook. It’s a quieter, less-visited viewpoint that offers stunning canyon scenery. Managed by the Navajo Nation, this overlook has a unique perspective on the canyon’s beauty and provides a calm, reflective spot to start your adventure.
Tusayan’s IMAX Theater
If you’re interested in learning about the Grand Canyon’s history and geology before you even set foot in the park, stop by the IMAX Theater in Tusayan. The theater shows a spectacular 34-minute film about the canyon’s origins, Native American history, and the first explorers who braved its rugged terrain. It’s an ideal preview of what you’ll see on your visit and a good place to stretch your legs before heading into the park.
Alternative Route 66 Grand Canyon Day Trip: Take the Train!
For a unique journey to the canyon, consider the Grand Canyon Railway. Operating since 1901, this historic train offers a scenic, round-trip ride from Williams, Arizona, to Grand Canyon National Park. As you travel in a restored vintage locomotive along the 64-mile route, you’ll be treated to beautiful landscapes and a touch of nostalgia.
The train departs daily from Williams at 9:30 a.m., arriving in Grand Canyon Village around 11:45 a.m. It departs the village at 3:30 p.m., allowing passengers about 3.5 hours to explore. You’ll arrive back in Williams by 5:45 p.m., in time for dinner or sightseeing in town.
Taking the Grand Canyon Railway adds a memorable twist to your visit, offering a relaxing and scenic way to reach the South Rim without the hassle of driving and parking. Book your train trip now.
Where to Stay Near the Grand Canyon National Park
When planning a detour to the Grand Canyon on your Route 66 road trip, where you stay can make all the difference in your experience. Choosing convenient lodging near the South Rim gives you more time to soak in the canyon’s incredible views, whether you’re aiming for sunrise at Mather Point or a sunset stroll along the Rim Trail. With options from historic lodges inside the park to charming hotels right on Route 66 in nearby Williams and Flagstaff, you’ll find a spot that fits your schedule and budget. And if these don’t suit your style, don’t worry—plenty more accommodations are available in each area and beyond, ready to be booked as you roll along the Mother Road.
Where to Stay in Williams, Arizona
Williams, Arizona, is a fantastic base for travelers wanting to explore the Grand Canyon and experience Route 66’s nostalgic charm. Known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon,” this historic town is packed with vintage motels, diners, and shops that make for a memorable stopover. It’s also home to the Grand Canyon Railway, offering a scenic ride straight to the South Rim. Staying in Williams means you’re close enough to reach the canyon in under an hour while enjoying the classic Route 66 vibe right outside your door.
Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel
Grand Canyon Railway Hotel is designed to resemble the century-old train depot that housed the original Fray Marcos Hotel. Situated right next door to the train depot it’s a luxurious and convenient stay for your Grand Canyon side trip.
Grand Canyon Hotel
Opened since 1891, the Grand Canyon Hotel is known as the oldest hotel in Arizona. Stay in one of their themed rooms for a unique experience.
Grand Canyon Inn Motel
Located right across the road from Raptor Ranch and Flinstones Bedrock City, Grand Canyon Inn Motel is an excellent choice for those taking a detour to the Grand Canyon National Park. The hotel is located a short drive from the park’s South entrance and features an on-site restaurant and bar.
Where to Stay in Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff, Arizona, offers a perfect blend of Route 66 history and access to the Grand Canyon. Located just an hour and a half from the South Rim, this lively city makes an ideal base for canyon adventurers, with a vibrant downtown full of classic Route 66 motels, local restaurants, and shops. Plus, Flagstaff’s higher elevation provides a cool mountain climate, perfect for unwinding after a day at the Grand Canyon. Whether you’re in search of modern hotels or cozy lodges, Flagstaff has accommodations to suit every traveler’s style.
Americana Motor Hotel
Built in 1962 and renovated and reopened in 2023, the Americana Motor Hotel is the perfect mix of vintage charm and modern convenience. Rooms are decorated in a retro-futuristic design and offer plush beds, walk-in showers, 4K TVs, and premium WiFi. At the Route 66 hotel you’ll find convenient self-parking, a year-round heated pool, telescopes, board games, yard games, and EV chargers.
Hotel Monte Vista
Built in 1926, Hotel Monte Vista is a classic hotel in a prime location in downtown Flagstaff. The restored guest rooms include free WiFi and cable TV and attached bars offer entertainment and drinks. For those traveling on a budget, Hotel Monte Vista also offers Traveler’s Rooms with shared bathrooms and showers. This hotel is allegedly haunted, so keep an eye out for ghosts. On-site parking is available, though limited.
Where to Stay at The Grand Canyon
Staying within Grand Canyon National Park immerses you in the South Rim’s awe-inspiring scenery and places you steps away from the canyon’s viewpoints, trails, and historic lodges. For Route 66 travelers, it’s an unmatched experience, adding a night at one of America’s most iconic landmarks to your journey. With options ranging from rustic lodges to modern accommodations, staying inside the park lets you soak in sunrise, sunset, and everything in between, all without the extra drive.
El Tovar
El Tovar Hotel is a historic landmark that has been welcoming guests since 1905. The luxurious property is located right on the rin of the Grand Canyon and still retains its original historic charm. Enjoy a stay in one of their 78 rooms or suites.
Bright Angel Lodge
Bright Angel Lodge, located at the top of Bright Angel Trail Head, was designed in 1935 by Mary Colter to resemble a rambling pioneer settlement. With its rustic character, this budget option offers all the charm you’d hope for in a Grand Canyon hotel.
Yavapai Lodge
Yavapai Lodge is set close to Market Village in the Grand Canyon. Located close to the market, post office, and EV charging stations it is a convenient option for anyone wanting to stay in the park. The cozy seating areas and outdoor patio make it a comfortable place to relax after a day on the trails.
Getting to the Grand Canyon from Route 66
Route 66 travelers are in for a treat when making the journey to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, one of America’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Whether starting from Williams or Flagstaff, each location offers its own charm, accessibility, and scenic paths to the canyon. Here’s what to know about driving between these popular Route 66 stops.
From Williams, Arizona
Williams is often called the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon” for its close proximity and easy access. Located just 60 miles south of the South Rim, Williams is the closest Route 66 town to the Grand Canyon and offers a direct route via AZ-64.
Distance: ~60 miles
Driving Time: 1 hour
Directions: Head north on AZ-64 from Williams. You’ll pass through beautiful pine forests and gradually ascend to the South Rim entrance.
From Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff, situated about 80 miles from the Grand Canyon, is a great base for exploring the South Rim. The drive from Flagstaff offers diverse landscapes, from forests to high desert views.
Distance: ~80 miles
Driving Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Directions: Head northwest on US-180 to AZ-64, following signs to the Grand Canyon’s South Entrance. Alternatively, you can take I-40 west to Williams and connect to AZ-64 for a scenic approach.
A Grand Canyon detour from Route 66 is more than a side trip—it’s a journey to one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders, right on your road trip path! With this day trip itinerary, you have everything you need to make the most of your time, from must-see overlooks to convenient places to rest your head at night. Whether you’re here to catch the sunrise, hike a rim trail, or simply gaze out over the vast canyon, your Route 66 adventure will be all the richer for it. So, pack up, fuel up, and get ready for a day that’s sure to be a highlight on your Route 66 road trip!
