Flag Staff to South Rim
Are there any pro/con's of US 180 vs I-40 going from Flag Staff to South Rim?
Forum Discussion
Pro's and cons to both routes.
I-40/Hwy 64
Pros:
Easier drive, flatter and straighter.
Lots to see and do around Williams. Bearizona, Deer petting zoo, zipline.
Cons:
Typical interstate. Not as scenic. VERY rough, lots of potholes although they have been repaving some sections.
Hwy 180:
Pros:
More scenic winding thru mountains.
Stop at Snowbowl and ride chairlift to top for scenic views. (Park at bottom and use toad to drive up).
Cons:
Slower, winding road. Must drive thru Flagstaff. Not as easy but 180 is all good road.
The other route mentioned is 89 from Flagstaff towards page. Turn left at Cameron on Hwy 64. Trading Post there is worth the stop for Indian goods. A bit further is little colorado river gorge. Great views of a deep, steep cliff walled gorge. Keep away from areas near parking without guard rails. Sheer cliffs, loose gravel don't mix! Local Indians often setup a flee market here for arts and crafts. Once entering the canyons eastern entrance there are several vistas to stop at that often aren't as crowded as those further on at the south rim or western rim areas. Further drive but worth it.
I-40/Hwy 64
Pros:
Easier drive, flatter and straighter.
Lots to see and do around Williams. Bearizona, Deer petting zoo, zipline.
Cons:
Typical interstate. Not as scenic. VERY rough, lots of potholes although they have been repaving some sections.
Hwy 180:
Pros:
More scenic winding thru mountains.
Stop at Snowbowl and ride chairlift to top for scenic views. (Park at bottom and use toad to drive up).
Cons:
Slower, winding road. Must drive thru Flagstaff. Not as easy but 180 is all good road.
The other route mentioned is 89 from Flagstaff towards page. Turn left at Cameron on Hwy 64. Trading Post there is worth the stop for Indian goods. A bit further is little colorado river gorge. Great views of a deep, steep cliff walled gorge. Keep away from areas near parking without guard rails. Sheer cliffs, loose gravel don't mix! Local Indians often setup a flee market here for arts and crafts. Once entering the canyons eastern entrance there are several vistas to stop at that often aren't as crowded as those further on at the south rim or western rim areas. Further drive but worth it.
