Flagstaff and southern rim

[joe_puma]

Having just retired, we will be heading to AZ around middle of Jan. heading to Phoenix for Feb. We are trying to decide if we should go in route 10 to the south, or route 40 into Flagstaff and try to go to the southern rim area for a few days, then head south on 17 to Phoenix. Our main concern would be towing in snowy conditions. Has anyone been on these roads say the middle to end of January, and how was the driving? Feel free to offer any other suggestions or ideas.
Thanks,
Ron

[lane_hog]

I'd suggest swinging down thru STL on I-55 to I-44 into OKC, I-35(W) into FTW, and then getting on I-20 vs. betting on I-40.

Not a lot of scenery on I-40, but there are tons of trucks, and the weather will turn on a dime. If you've grown accustomed to driving in Chicago winter weather, then you can handle it, but chances are most the other drivers are clueless.

You shouldn't have any problems reserving the RV park at the rim in the winter, but you'll need to be self-sufficient for water/sewer. Williams is 2000 feet lower, so you'll have less snow/ice to contend with, but we like being -at- the Rim and not driving all day to/from it.

The other advantage of being there in the off season is you can drive out to Hermit's Rest (the road is bus and handicap permit only during high season).

Seeing the canyon in snow? Priceless.

[Janss]

If you are staying in Phoenix for the month of Feb., I suggest doing an overnight or two to the Grand Canyon in your tow vehicle (unless the RV park prohibits leaving your unit for that long.) It's a 4-hour drive. Check the weather forecast for planning.

If you do decide to RV to the Grand Canyon and you don't want to stay overnight in below freezing temps of GC, Williams or Flagstaff, then stay in Sedona/Cottonwood area. It's a 2-hour drive from Sedona. Of course, still check the weather.

But as already mentioned, sunrise and sunset are the most magical times, so an overnight at GC is best.

[BarabooBob]

Most of the people that I talked to in the campground were spending at least 2 days there. My wife and I spent 3 days on the south rim and 2 days on the north rim. Part of that time was just sitting and watching the sunrise and sunset.

[Lwiddis]

Williams is a neat little town. Try Rod’s for a good steak. Slow but friendly service.

[Fizz]

We spent three days there and it took me close to four hours just to walk the Rim Trail, worth every step.

[Johno02]

Having been there, I can't imagine the Grand Canyon in just three hours. It takes light from the far side that long just to get there!! And the sunsets and sunrises are a must. We spent over a week, and enjoyed every minute. For just three hours, better just to buy a picture book and save the drive.

[Dick_B]

Another option is to stay in Williams and take the train to the South Rim. There is a 3 hour turnaround but that's more than most tourists stay at the rim.
I just noticed that the Grand Canyon Railway has a package to include a stay at their hotel at the South Rim.

[ItsyRV]

I-40 in the winter is mostly good traveling. It's just that when the snows come, it can be light or it can be horrible. The worst is when the weather goes bad (and it can be forecast for a light dusting but turn into a raging blizzard) things can be really bad. Nobody wants to spend half a day stranded on the side of a full stop interstate in the middle of nowhere in freezing weather with 12 inches of very wet heavy snow piling up around them. So, although your odds are only about 25% that you may hit really bad weather, should you, you may regret not taking the southern route.

Now, assuming you make it on I-40 with no incidents, with clear weather, no snow and bright sunshine - you run the risk of some fool in their vehicle barreling down (and I mean down) I-17 or paying too much attention to their smartphone and WHAM... Anyone who's been stuck on I-17 during a major accident knows what I mean. Once again, the odds are small but if it happens to you, you probably will regret not taking the southern route.

I personally have no issues as I'm set up for wilderness camping be it in the woods or lane 2 of the interstate. I also have the possibility of hitting the Forest or Fire roads to get around problems, but a larger RV is at the mercy of DPS & ADOT.

It's just a gamble; risk vs reward. The odds are in your favor that weather and road conditions wont be an issue, but if they are, just be aware it may not be enjoyable in the least.

[Tyler0215]

I have driven I-40 many times in the winter and had perfect weather. Cold but clear blue skies and dry roads. Watch the forecast and plan accordingly. The Grand Canyon in the winter is beautiful. Well worth seeing.
If you do decide to go I-10 to Phoenix, the Grand Canyon is a day trip
from Phoenix.

[vermilye]

2X

[Desert_Captain]

Anywhere near Flagstaff in January can be problematic weatherwise, it's not unusual for I-40 to be closed between Albuquerque and Flagstaff. It will be cold and snow, often very heavy snow is common especially in Flagstaff.

I recommend the southern route via I-10 and even there you can encounter snow at the higher elevations. Keep a close eye on the weather, the internet through your smart phone is your best friend and be prepared to hole up should you encounter storms.

Good luck!

:C