Which part of the Grand Canyon is closest to Flagstaff?
Grand Canyon National Park's SOUTH RIM (open all year) is located 60 miles north of Williams, Arizona (via route 64 from Interstate 40) and 80 miles northwest of Flagstaff (via route 180).
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Flagstaff is one of the great portals to the Grand Canyon for its close proximity, stunning alpine beauty, college-town conviviality, and Route 66 history.
Driving Distance from Flagstaff, AZ to Grand CanyonFlagstaff, AZ to Grand Canyon South Rim is 79 miles, a 1 hour 30-minute drive. Flagstaff, AZ to Grand Canyon East Rim is 124 miles, a 2 hour 5-minute drive. Flagstaff, AZ to Grand Canyon North Rim is 207 miles, a 3 hour 40-minute drive.
The sheer magnitude of the Grand Canyon is much more visible from the South Rim. The South Rim is more “user friendly” with paved paths along the rim. In the winter, The South Rim is covered in snow. It's a beautiful sight, but make sure to wear your winter gear.
US-89 North to AZ-64 West (Desert View Dr.) The Scenic Route takes you along the East Rim and is considered one of the most scenic drives in the entire USA. If a little adventure sounds appealing, take this extended route and make it a day trip, planning to make many stops along the way just to take in the scenery.
Because it's home to many of the most memorable viewpoints, the South Rim is the ideal destination for first-time Grand Canyon Visitors. If you have small children, you may prefer to visit the South Rim for its many amenities and activities.
Flagstaff Airport is the closest small commercial airport to Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, just a 92-minute scenic drive via three distinct routes. Fly American Airlines or United Airlines exclusively from or connecting through Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport (PHX), Denver (DEN) or Dallas - Ft.
Not only does the South Rim have the best views, but it also has the best hikes. You can take anything from a 30-minute paved trail along the Rim to a 14-hour trek to the Colorado River at the bottom of the canyon. It is safe to say that if you want to hike at the Grand Canyon, the South Rim is the best side for you.
By far the best location to stay at the Grand Canyon National Park is the Grand Canyon Village at the South Rim. There are several nice hotels here. And because you are sleeping inside the National Park, you are just a short walk away from the most beautiful scenery.
There is just one scenic drive open to private cars on the South Rim, Desert View Drive. The 23 mile (37 km) long Desert View Drive features marvelous panoramic views of Grand Canyon and the Colorado River.
The average distance across the canyon is only 10 miles, however, the drive between the park's South Rim Village and the North Rim Village is about 212 miles and takes about 4 1/2 hours to drive. It takes time, planning, and effort to visit both rims in one trip.
Safety: Taking a guided tour can be safer than driving yourself, especially if you're not familiar with the terrain or weather conditions. However, there are also some downsides to taking a tour: Cost: Tours can be expensive, especially if you're traveling with a large group or booking a luxury tour.
The town of Tusayan, which is just 15-20 minutes away from the main Visitor Center on the south rim, has a great selection of places to stay. Grand Canyon Junction (formerly known as Valle) is further out (about 30 minutes to the rim), but is another good option. If you want a hotel, stay in Tusayan, which has plenty.
For most South Rim visitors, one day is enough to take pictures, walk around the rim and even take a Grand Canyon helicopter tour or vehicle tour. But if you're planning on exploring the Grand Canyon a little more in-depth, staying in or near the park is a great idea.
Which rim of the Grand Canyon should you visit? The South Rim is a place everyone should visit at least once because it has iconic views. But the North Rim is a place you'll want to return to again because it provides more solitude and better sunsets.