Route map
Start / endStopsHalfway
Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: the drive
The drive from Phoenix to Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim) covers 228 miles (367 km) and takes about 3 hr 30 min without stops, mostly on I-17, AZ-64 and I-40.
It's an easy drive that leaves plenty of time to explore along the way. Allow about 5 hrs with breaks.
We found 4 worthwhile stops within about 25 miles of the route, including Jerome, Montezuma Castle National Monument, Williams and Desert View Watchtower.
| Main roads | Approx. miles |
|---|---|
| I-17 | 139 |
| AZ-64 | 52 |
| I-40 | 29 |
Best time to go: Year-round for the South Rim. The North Rim is a separate trip and normally closes mid-October to mid-May.
Best stops between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon
- 1
Jerome
A former copper boomtown clinging to Cleopatra Hill, now full of galleries and tasting rooms, with sweeping views of the Verde Valley.
Photo: Seasider53 · CC BY 4.0 - 2
Montezuma Castle National Monument
A five-story cliff dwelling set high in a limestone wall, viewed from a short, flat loop trail just off I-17.
Photo: Beyond My Ken · CC BY-SA 4.0 - 3
Williams
The 'Gateway to the Grand Canyon': a Route 66 main street and the depot for the Grand Canyon Railway.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons · Public domain
Near the Grand Canyon
- 4
Desert View Watchtower
Mary Colter's 1932 stone tower at the east end of the South Rim, and the first viewpoint if you enter from Cameron.
Photo: Grand Canyon National Park · Public domain
Where to stay in Tusayan
The South Rim is open all year and has the classic viewpoints: Mather Point, Yavapai and the Desert View Watchtower. Tusayan is the closest town with lodging. Rooms near national parks sell out in peak season, so book early.
Map not loading? See places to stay near Tusayan →
Renting a car for this trip
Most travelers fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and pick up a car there. Booking a round trip from the same airport is usually much cheaper than a one-way rental. A mid-size car is fine for all paved roads on this route. You only need an SUV for the optional dirt-road detours.
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Rental cars at PHX
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Trip cost calculator
Estimate gas or charging, hotels and car rental for a round trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon:
Phoenix to the Grand Canyon road trip FAQ
How long is the drive from Phoenix to Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)?
About 3 hr 30 min without stops for 228 miles via I-17, AZ-64 and I-40. With breaks for fuel and food, allow around 5 hrs.
What is the halfway point between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon?
Sedona, AZ is about halfway, roughly 114 miles from each end. It's a good place for fuel and a meal.
Can you drive from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon in one day?
Yes. At 3 hr 30 min of driving it's a comfortable one-day trip. Leave early so you arrive with daylight to spare.
What are the best stops between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon?
Top stops include Jerome, Montezuma Castle National Monument, Williams and Desert View Watchtower. See the full list with detour times above.
How much does gas cost from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon?
About $29 one way in a car that gets 28 mpg with gas at $3.60 a gallon. Use the calculator on this page to plug in your own car and prices.
When is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon?
Year-round for the South Rim. The North Rim is a separate trip and normally closes mid-October to mid-May.
Route calculated from OpenStreetMap data and checked 2026-11-09. Drive times assume normal traffic and no stops.
