One of the best day trips to take from Las Vegas is a scenic and exciting drive to the Grand Canyon. This epic drive will allow you to see incredible sites such as Boulder City, the Hoover Dam, and Lake Mead. And when you arrive you can wander at the incredible canyon and marvel at the view from the SkyWalk.

The nearest point of entry into the Canyon from Las Vegas is the Grand Canyon West Rim. The drive from Vegas should take you about two and a half hours and you can drive on to explore other aspects of the area from there.

Read below for a breakdown of the main viewing points in the Grand Canyon and what features and attractions you can enjoy at each stop on your driving tour.

Three Main Grand Canyon View Points

The Grand Canyon West Rim

Located approximately 130 miles distance from Las Vegas, you should reach this part of the Grand Canyon within two and a half hours. When you arrive, you can park up for free and take one of the free shuttles on offer at the Welcome Center. These will take you to Grand Canyon West Rim viewing points such as Guano Point, Eagle Point, and Hualapai Ranch No private cars are permitted at the canyon itself as this area is owned by the Hualapai Indian tribe.

You will need to pay the minimum entry fee of $45. (Your National Park pass will not allow you to enter for free.) Entry will allow you to access the world-famous SkyWalk Glass Bridge experience. This bridge is made up of a spectacular glass floor that hangs in a horseshoe shape over the 4,000-foot canyon. Even if you don’t think you can stomach this particular view, there are still great natural viewing points all around.

For an all-inclusive tour of this part of the Grand Canyon National Park, you can book the 5-in-1 tour. You will be picked up from Vegas by bus, all your fees are covered, and you will be taken to the top 5 viewing spots in the area (including the SkyWalk.) Meals are included and you should book out a full day for these full-service bus tours.

The Grand Canyon South Rim

This is the most visited part of the Grand Canyon and is located approximately 280 miles from Las Vegas. A drive should take you about four and a half hours and when you arrive you can enjoy activities such as hiking, mule rides, river running, and biking.

When you arrive at the South Rim, you’ll be able to park up in one of the four lots by the visitor center. Here you’ll find the café, shuttle transportation, and bike rentals. Permits cost $35 per vehicle and $20 for an individual permit. Members of the military can enter for free.

Because this part of the canyon is so popular, it is best to arrive early and beat the crowds. Mather Point provides the best view in this section and you can walk the Trail of Time along the way. This scenic walk is peppered with interesting fact boards about the animals, plant life, and geology all around you.

To get the best from this incredibly vast area, it’s best to set aside a few days. That way you can enjoy all the activities and spectacular sights.

Grand Canyon North Rim

This part of the Grand Canyon is the furthest drive from Las Vegas, at 268 miles, and approximately 5-6 hours driving. But it also has the fewest crowds and some of the most rewarding views in the canyon.

When you arrive, you can park in the lot at the North Rim, or else at the campground or Grand Canyon Lodge. You will need to pay $35 for your vehicle, $25 if you arrive on a motorcycle, or $20 for an individual permit. Active members of the military will be granted free entry.

Upon arrival, you can start exploring one of the many hiking trails in the area. One of the most popular is the Bright Angel Point Trail. This walk is relatively low impact and you’ll see some incredible sights. Alternatively, you can opt to take a Mule ride around the area.

One of the most scenic routes along the North Rim is the Scenic Drive. This 25-mile journey should take you about half a day and features lots of great views and interesting walks to enjoy along the way.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller.

Essential Tips for Your Trip

• Pack Accordingly: Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Stay Hydrated: The desert climate can be harsh, so drink plenty of water.
• Respect the Environment: Stay on designated trails and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Book in Advance: If you plan to stay overnight or participate in guided tours, book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

The Perfect Travel Credit Card for Your Trip

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is an excellent choice for a trip to the Grand Canyon. This premium travel rewards card offers a high annual fee but comes with a suite of benefits that can enhance your trip.

• $300 Annual Travel Credit: Use this credit to offset expenses like flights, hotels, and car rentals.
• Priority Pass Select: Enjoy access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide.
• Rental Car Insurance: Get primary rental car insurance coverage.
• Travel Insurance: Benefit from trip cancellation, interruption, and baggage delay insurance.

By using this card for your travel expenses, you can earn valuable reward points and maximize your savings.

A Memorable Grand Canyon Experience

If you want a few days away from the bright lights of Vegas, then driving to the Grand Canyon is a great option. This incredible wonder of the world is only a few hours' drive from the city and showcases some of the most amazing sights you’ll ever see. If you would like a guided tour of the area including helicopter, bus, and plane tours, these are available to elevate your Grand Canyon road trip. No matter how you choose to visit, driving from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, a trip to the Grand Canyon is sure to be an unforgettable experience. By following these tips and choosing the right travel credit card, you can make the most of your adventure.