Road Trip from Seattle to the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the world's most magnificent places; it stands as an unparalleled testament to the sheer power and beauty of nature that cannot be found in the Northwest. Whether you love outdoor activities or you simply want to feast your eyes on something unforgettable, the effort it takes to travel to the Grand Canyon is more than worth it. Why not drive there? Here are a few itineraries that might serve as inspiration for your upcoming road trip.
Drive Time from Seattle to the Grand Canyon: approximately 20 hours
Distance from Seattle to the Grand Canyon: approximately 1,325 miles
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1. Seattle
Because the drive to the Grand Canyon takes about two days, your goal on the first day is to make it to Twin Falls, Idaho, which is a rough halfway point between Seattle and your destination. In Seattle, hop on I-90, and enjoy a scenic drive over the Cascade Mountains. Eventually, you'll change highways and veer south and east across Washington, where you'll be delighted by rugged landscapes and sights of some of the state's famous apple orchards. Your path will take you into southern Idaho.
If you have more time, take I-5 South from Seattle, and merge onto I-84 before you get into Idaho. Overall, this route takes about an hour longer, but it will take you through the gorgeous Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
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2. Twin Falls, Idaho
You'll drive from Twin Falls to your destination at the Grand Canyon. Because you're likely to arrive at the Grand Canyon well after dark no matter how fast you drive, take things at a leisurely pace. Utah is one of the most scenic states in the country. If you have the time, you might want to take an extra day exploring one of Utah's national parks, such as Zion National Park. When you get to the Grand Canyon at night, drive to one of the lookout points along the South Rim and enjoy the sight of a star-filled sky.
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3. Grand Canyon
This is your time to explore the Grand Canyon. Get acquainted with the area by driving along the South Rim. Pull off at all the lookouts along the way, take some selfies, practice your fine photography skills, and do some walking.
Then, take your pick of the other activities at the Grand Canyon. You can go for a hike; they range from moderate difficulty to those that are only for seasoned experts. For a unique perspective of the canyon, take a mule ride or a helicopter ride. You could even go river rafting. There are tons of great places to eat in the area, too. Try Plaza Bonita in nearby Tusayan for a Mexican meal you're not likely to forget.
