Grand Canyon Scenic Drives from North Rim to South Rim

Grand Canyon Scenic Drives

Taking one of Grand Canyon’s many scenic drives is the best way to cover the most ground and see as many Grand Canyon vistas as possible, especially if you’re short on time. Scenic Drives in Grand Canyon National Park offer something for everyone including an incredible variety of Grand Canyon viewpoints, picnic areas and famous points of interest along the way. They are also the same dramatic roads visitors use to get to trailheads, rafting trips and other amazing Grand Canyon destinations and activities. While some drives are on paved two lane highways, others follow dirt 4x4 roads better suited for jeeps and high clearance vehicles. Whatever road you decide to travel at Grand Canyon National Park, one thing is for sure...you won't be disappointed. Read the guide below to find out about the best scenic drives, or check out our Grand Canyon scenic drives map.

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Grand Canyon South Rim Scenic Drives

Desert View Drive

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Desert View Drive (also known are HWY 64E) spans the 25 miles between Grand Canyon Village and the Desert View/East entrance station. There are six developed canyon viewpoints, but an additional five unmarked pullouts that offer even more views.

Forest Service Rd 328

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This well-graded dirt road connects to either Rowe Well Road to enter Grand Canyon Village or you can head west towards the Havasupai Indian Reservation and the Pasture Wash/South Bass Trailhead area of Grand Canyon National Park.

Hermit Road

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This scenic drive starts in historic Grand Canyon Village and takes you to the western end of the South Rim at Hermits Rest. It closely parallels the canyon’s South Rim for seven miles and you can see incredible canyon views along the way, even from inside your car or the park’s free shuttle buses.

Rowe Well Road

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This road starts behind the Maswik Lodge and then takes you out of the park and into the Kaibab National Forest.

Yaki Point Road

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While this scenic drive is not for the casual visitor or the faint of heart, it is one of the best adventures that Grand Canyon has to offer, leading you to an isolated and breathtaking 3,000 ft drop-off view of the Colorado River.

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Grand Canyon Guide to Scenic Drives