How long is it from LA to the Grand Canyon?

The drive from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon is a bit of a trek, but it's well worth it. You're looking at about 8 hours on the road, covering roughly 480 miles. Of course, this depends on the route you take and how often you stop along the way. If you fancy a leisurely drive with plenty of sightseeing, you might want to spread the journey over a couple of days.

How much does it cost to drive from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon?

The cost of driving from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon can vary, depending on a few factors like your car's fuel efficiency and the current price of petrol. On average, you might spend around £100 to £150 on fuel for a round trip. Don't forget to factor in any additional costs like food, accommodation if you're planning an overnight stay, and any cheeky little detours you might take along the way.

Is it better to take the train or drive to the Grand Canyon?

The classic train vs car debate! Taking the train, specifically the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, Arizona, is a charming and relaxed way to travel. It's a fantastic experience, especially if you're a fan of scenic views and a bit of old-world charm. However, driving gives you more flexibility to explore and make impromptu stops. If you're keen on sightseeing and enjoy taking the scenic route at your own pace, driving might be your best bet.

How many days is enough to see Grand Canyon?

To really soak in the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, I'd recommend at least two to three days. This gives you ample time to explore different viewpoints, take a few hikes, and maybe even enjoy a sunrise or sunset over the canyon. If you're up for more adventure, like a helicopter tour or a rafting trip down the Colorado River, you might want to extend your stay a bit longer. But even if you've only got a day to spare, it's still absolutely worth the visit!

15 Must-See Stops on Your LA to Grand Canyon Road Trip

Going on an LA to Grand Canyon road trip is probably one of the most famous bucket list items ever. It’s the stuff of dreams… or movies. These must-see stops are worth the detours to make this epic trip even more spectacular.

Have you ever wanted to do the whole Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas drive? Or fancy yourself a couple of fugitives on the run like Thelma and Louise (minus the driving off the edge of the canyon)? The LA to Grand Canyon road trip is truly like something from the movies. It’s on lots of people’s bucket lists, and for good reason too.

LA, Las Vegas and Arizona are all incredible cities. They’re just so crazy and iconic that everyone has something to say about their time there. And of course, the Grand Canyon is a famous wonder of the world located between Vegas and Arizona. But what I loved most wasn’t the the end points, it was the journey between LA and the Grand Canyon.

If you’re driving on the l-40 E, the distance between LA and the Grand Canyon is 480 miles. This takes approximately 7.5-8 hours, when there’s little traffic. But there’s a whole lot to see if you’re willing to stop and take detours.

On the LA to Grand Canyon road trip, you can see retro diners, TONS of Route 66 photo spots, natural beauty, cowboy towns and a whole lot more.

LA to Grand Canyon Road Trip in 15 Stops

See national parks, craters, and of course – the infamous route 66 on my LA and the Grand Canyon road trip itinerary.

1. Santa Monica Pier, California

The Santa Monica Pier is like stepping into a postcard with its classic Ferris wheel and endless ocean views. You’ll probably have seen it as the backdrop for many films and TV series. I couldn’t resist trying some of the carnival games and grabbing an ice cream before starting the LA and the Grand Canyon road trip.

Santa Monica Pier is a great place to start your LA to Grand Canyon road trip

The vibe here is just buzzing – street performers, the sound of the waves, and that fresh sea air. It’s the perfect spot to kick off an epic journey! There’s also plenty of supermarkets and coffee shops to stock up before you start driving.

We popped into one of the restaurants on the pier and had a delicious chowder, served in a sourdough loaf. So good!

2. Palm Springs, California

About three hours’ drive from Santa Monica Pier you’ll arive at Palm Springs. This place is a retro dream. You can feel like a movie star from the golden age of Hollywood lounging by a chic poolside.

Palm Spings is a must-see stop when driving from LA to Grnad Canyon

The architecture here is a feast for the eyes – all sleek lines and popping colours. It’s a weird mix of pure relaxation mixed with a touch of glamour. You can do lots of different activities too. Whether you’re here for the spas, the golf, or just to soak up the sun, Palm Springs is a little slice of paradise.

Here are the best things to do in Palm Springs while you’re there.

3. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Next up, Joshua Tree National Park. It’s like landing on a different planet! Those quirky Joshua trees look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. They’re actually a type of Yucca, named by Mormons in the 1850s who thought they looked like Joshua’s arms pointing to the promised land.