Grand Canyon 3-Day Tour from LA: Rim Trail & Route 66 (2026)
Embark on the ultimate 3-day Grand Canyon adventure from Los Angeles! Explore the majestic South Rim, hike the scenic Rim Trail, and step back in time on historic Route 66.
Your Epic 3-Day Grand Canyon Adventure from LA
Episode 03: Grand Canyon | Rim Trail | Route 66
Photos/Words ©MiniManiMoo
Hey there, fellow adventurers!
It's Mini, your guide to the best of the American West!
We've finally arrived at the last installment of my 3-day Grand Canyon tour from Los Angeles.
In this exciting episode, I'll be sharing the highlights of our trip: exploring Grand Canyon National Park, trekking the incredible Rim Trail, and taking a nostalgic cruise down historic Route 66.
🔻Catch up on Episodes 1 & 2🔻
LA to Grand Canyon 3-Day Tour Ep.01: Seven Magic Mountains | Las Vegas | Premium Outlets
Table of Contents |
Booking Your Grand Canyon Tour from LA |
Grand Canyon National Park |
The Rim Trail |
Historic Route 66 |
Booking Your Grand Canyon Tour from LA
The tour I joined takes you on an unforgettable 3-day journey from Los Angeles, through Las Vegas, and all the way to the Grand Canyon. It's a jam-packed itinerary that manages to fit in Zion Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the Grand Canyon in just a few days, making it incredibly popular with travelers looking to maximize their time.
Here are the tour options I considered and the one I booked:
Grand Canyon Tour Collections | |
3-Day Los Angeles to Las Vegas Tour: Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Zion & Death Valley | |
3-Day Las Vegas Tour from Los Angeles: Lower Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend | United States | |
3-Day Las Vegas Tour from Los Angeles: Grand Canyon West Rim & Hoover Dam | United States |
Grand Canyon National Park
We kicked off our morning with a quick cup of ramen at a rest stop – seriously, nothing beats a warm bowl of noodles when you're on a road trip!
And then, the moment we'd all been waiting for: our arrival at Grand Canyon National Park!
They say it's one of the top places to visit before you die, and honestly, that's no exaggeration. The sheer scale and endless expanse of the canyon are something you truly have to see to believe. It's an overwhelming, humbling, and utterly breathtaking experience.
Grand Canyon
📍Arizona, USA
🎫 Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle / $20 per pedestrian
⏰ Open 24/7
📍 Grand Canyon National Park
Arizona, USA
The Rim Trail
The Grand Canyon's South Rim is dotted with various viewpoints, including iconic spots like Mather Point, Yaki Point, Yavapai Point, and Grandview Point.
Grand Canyon Viewpoints
During our free time, I embarked on a hike along the Rim Trail for about an hour. The views were absolutely stunning every step of the way, and I even spotted some adorable squirrels, which made the trek even more enjoyable!
I also popped into the gift shop and picked up a Grand Canyon magnet. Little souvenirs like these are perfect for remembering your travels later on!
Grand Canyon South Rim Gift Shop
📍Arizona, USA 86023
📍 Rim Trail
Rim Trail, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023 USA
Historic Route 66
On our way back, we made a stop at the legendary Route 66. It was so cool to see the iconic sign in person, especially after admiring it in a Yosigo photography exhibition. This one, in particular, felt even grander and more picturesque than the one I'd seen in Santa Monica!
It's the perfect spot to snap some classic photos in front of the vintage signs and the old train!
📍617 E Rte 66, Williams, AZ 86046 USA
📍 Route 66 Williams Sign
617 E Rte 66, Williams, AZ 86046 USA
After wrapping up all our adventures, we grabbed a meal at a joint KFC and Taco Bell restaurant. A huge shoutout to our guide, who was incredibly friendly and professional throughout all the long hours of driving, and to my fellow travelers who made the entire trip so much fun!
This 3-day tour was short but incredibly impactful, covering Zion Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, the Grand Canyon, and Route 66 – truly the essential highlights of the American Southwest all in one go.
If you're considering a Grand Canyon tour departing from LA, I can't recommend this one enough!
For more Las Vegas travel tips, check out these posts:
Las Vegas | Tacos El Gordo: Local Taco Hotspot | Menu, Prices, How to Order, Review
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the entrance fees and operating hours for Grand Canyon National Park?
Grand Canyon National Park is open 24 hours a day, allowing you to visit anytime. The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle, or $20 if entering on foot.
How long does the Rim Trail trek at the Grand Canyon South Rim take, and what are the main viewpoints?
During the free time provided on the tour, you can enjoy trekking the Rim Trail for about an hour. Along the way, you will encounter various viewpoints, including Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Grandview Point.
What are the best photo spots on Route 66, which we visit on the way back from the tour?
On Route 66, you can see a classic sign that is much larger and more beautiful than the one in Santa Monica. This sign and the front of the train are the main spots for taking great photos.
How are meals arranged on the last day of the 3-day, 2-night Grand Canyon tour departing from LA?
For breakfast, we stop at a rest area for a quick cup of instant noodles. After all the tour activities are completed, we will have a meal at a combined KFC and Taco Bell restaurant.
Share this article
Featured in Collections
Discover more travel stories curated around the same theme.
Related Travel Stories
Chipotle Gangnam Review 2026: Ordering Guide & Best Combinations
Craving Chipotle in Seoul? Asia's first Chipotle has landed in Gangnam! Get insider tips on ordering your perfect burrito bowl and my favorite flavor combos.
In-N-Out Burger LAX: Must-Visit for Layover & Plane Spotting
Maximize your LAX layover! Discover the iconic In-N-Out Burger just a 5-minute ride from the airport, offering delicious food and incredible plane views.
Yard House LA Review: Best Sports Bar & Extensive Beer Menu
Looking for an authentic American sports bar experience in Los Angeles? Yard House offers a vibrant atmosphere, hundreds of beers on tap, and a menu for everyone.
LA Korean Guesthouses: Safe & Stylish Stays Near Koreatown
Planning a trip to LA? Explore our top 3 Korean guesthouse picks in Koreatown, offering safety, comfort, and easy access to local gems. Perfect for your next adventure!
LA Night Views: Universal City Overlook, Griffith Alternative 2026
Tired of the crowds at Griffith Observatory? Discover Universal City Overlook, a hidden gem offering breathtaking LA night views and a peaceful escape. Find out why locals love it!
Getty Villa 2026: Essential Guide for Your Visit
Plan your perfect 2026 visit to the Getty Villa! This guide shares insider tips on free admission, securing reservations, and navigating parking for a seamless experience.