Forum Discussion

randy1953's avatar
randy1953
Explorer
Dec 14, 2018

Good Route

Planning a trip from central Kentucky to Grand Canyon area, either north or south side. Leaning to North side at the moment. Any advice or preferences? Pulling Rockwood 8310 travel trailer with Silverado Duramax. Thanks
  • Remember the North Rim is closed until about May 15 or so. Check with the NPS.
  • My suggestion is for the first time you should see the South side. The beautiful antique facilities are so worth the visit. Another suggestion for first timers is to stay in Williams AZ at the Grand Canyon RR RV Park and take the train to the canyon. Once there, a bus tour is such a fun way to see the sights without dealing with finding parking spots for a car. Williams is a great destination in itself and is walking distance from the RV park. The above itinerary will not disappoint but better reserve NOW if you decide to do it. About an hour and a half West of Williams on the old Rt 66 alignment outside of Seligman is Grand Canyon Caverns. This place is a time warp that will take you back to the tourist trap 50s and also has an RV park. I consider it a must see for anyone close the GCNP.
  • Well looking at the map, I'd take I-65 southwest to I-40 then west on that. The disadvantage to that route is Oklahoma City, not a major problem. Then at Flagstaff take 89 north.

    Otherwise you could take I-70 all the way west to Denver then south on I-25. The problem with that is St Louis and Denver, both I try to avoid.

    We greatly prefer the North Rim but there are others who like the South Rim. We like the minimal crowds. You'll find a lot of the trails almost devoid of other people. And there are many back country roads. If you want reservations in the park you better make them early also be aware of the opening dates for the North Rim. Otherwise it's boondocking in the National Forest around the park or FHU in Jacob Lake.