Grand Canyon/Route 66 Journey to the Bottom

Exploring the Grand Canyon’s Depths with the Route 66 Journey to the Bottom

If you’re considering a trip that hits the highlights of the Grand Canyon without the hassle of planning every stop, this Grand Canyon/Route 66 Journey to the Bottom tour might just be worth your attention. Based out of Las Vegas, it promises an engaging day where you’ll get to see the canyon from a unique perspective—at its very bottom—while also enjoying some nostalgic Route 66 sights and a tasty lunch.

What we love about this tour is how it combines comfort with adventure. First, the air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive bearable, especially during warmer months, and the included park tickets save you time and money. Plus, the chance to spend roughly two hours at the canyon’s floor is pretty rare and offers a special vantage point that most visitors miss.

A potential consideration is the bumpy ride down the dirt road, which might be a turn-off if you’re sensitive to rougher terrain or prone to motion sickness. Also, since it’s a full-day trip, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a bit of a longer outing and can handle a busy schedule.

This tour will appeal most to those eager to see a different side of the canyon, history lovers, or anyone wanting a laid-back yet comprehensive experience. If you’re seeking a full, scenic day that blends natural beauty with a touch of Americana, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Unique Access: Spend about two hours at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, a rare opportunity for most visitors.
• Comfortable Travel: The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles for the entire journey, making the long drives more pleasant.
• Historical Route: Enjoy a scenic drive along Historic Route 66 with an extended stop at Hackberry General Store for shopping and photos.
• Inclusive Tickets and Lunch: Park tickets are included, helping you skip lines, and a provided lunch makes it easier to focus on the sights.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 12 travelers, expect a more personalized, unrushed trip.
• Highly Rated Guides: Consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness.

Getting to Know the Itinerary

First Stop: Peach Springs and the Canyon’s Floor

The highlight of this trip for many is the visit to the bottom of the Grand Canyon—about two hours of exploration that feels just right. The canyon is a staggering 277 miles long, with only one road leading to its floor, a 20-mile stretch that ends at the Colorado River. It’s a spot that offers a mix of wildlife sightings, jaw-dropping scenery, and plenty of photo opportunities.

From the reviews, it’s clear that guided commentary is appreciated. One traveler mentioned, “Wil with one L was awesome. From the time we got in the van till we got out, we felt like someone we had known for years.” That kind of connection makes the experience memorable. Many reviewers rave about the exceptional views and the “unforgettable” nature of the visit, especially the turquoise Colorado River and the rapids that surprised even seasoned travelers.

While the drive down can be a bit bumpy—some reviews mention a “bumpy ride”—most agree that the views and experience are worth it. If you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer smoother rides, it might be worth preparing accordingly.

Second Stop: Hackberry General Store and Lunch

After exploring the canyon’s floor, the tour stops at the Hackberry General Store, a classic stop for Route 66 fans. Here, you can stretch your legs, browse some unique souvenirs, and snap some photos of the nostalgic storefront. It’s a relaxed, fun way to soak in some Americana.

Lunch is included at the Hualapai Resort, offering a convenient and tasty break. Reviewers mention the delicious food—with particular praise for the fry bread and the tacos, which seem to be highlights. One reviewer even called the food “amazing,” indicating that the meal is a pleasant surprise rather than just a basic fare.

Transportation and Timing

The journey starts early at 7:30 am from Laughlin, NV, giving you plenty of time to experience the canyon without feeling rushed. The total trip lasts around 8 hours, including transport, stops, and exploration.

The small group size (up to 12 travelers) means you’ll get a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and personal attention. The air-conditioned van ensures the ride is comfortable, especially important on warmer days.

Tour Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The reviews repeatedly mention guides like Wil, Michael, and others as being informative, personable, and attentive. Many travelers comment on guides helping with questions or offering spot-on recommendations, like the famous Haulapai Taco. Good guides are key to making this trip extra special—they bring the landscape and history alive.

What the Experience Feels Like

Traveling in a cozy group, the scenery passing by is captivating. You’ll see the rugged beauty of the canyon walls, the Colorado River’s turquoise waters, and the contrasting desert landscape. The drive along Route 66 adds a nostalgic touch, making it feel like a step back in time.

Once at the bottom, the sense of being in such a vast, awe-inspiring space is hard to match. The photos will turn out fantastic—I mean, the canyon’s layered rock formations, the river below, and the surrounding wilderness are all picture-worthy.

The lunch break at the Hualapai Resort offers a chance to relax, enjoy some local flavors, and chat with fellow travelers. Many reviewers appreciated the fact that the food was “delicious” and that the tour was unrushed, allowing for plenty of time to take it all in.

The Bumpy Road and Terrain

One caveat is the “rougher” descent via dirt road, which some describe as bumpy. If you’re sensitive to this or traveling with someone who is, this is worth considering. Still, most agree that the views and the rare opportunity to be at the canyon’s bottom outweigh this minor discomfort.

The Value for the Price

At $288 per person, this tour offers a lot: transportation, park tickets, lunch, and a guided experience. Considering how much is included and the small group setting, it feels like a fair deal for a day packed with highlights. It’s especially appealing for those who want a comprehensive, guided look at the canyon with minimal hassle.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive trip without the need to plan logistics themselves. It’s ideal for those interested in natural beauty, history, and Americana—especially if you’re eager to see the canyon from its floor, which isn’t a typical viewpoint for most visitors.

Because of the limited group size and personalized guidance, it’s also a good choice for travelers who prefer a more intimate setting. The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but if you’re uncomfortable with dirt roads or rough terrain, you might want to consider that.

The Sum Up

For anyone looking to add a truly special experience to their Grand Canyon visit, this Journey to the Bottom tour offers a compelling mix of scenic drive, cultural nostalgia, and natural wonder. It’s a well-rounded day—thanks to the comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and the opportunity to stand at the canyon’s bottom—that delivers a perspective most travelers never get.

While the dirt road descent and full-day schedule might be considerations, the overall value, especially with included tickets and lunch, makes it a tour worth considering. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a small group vibe, love photography, and want a guided experience packed with insights and stunning scenery.

If you’re after a day of discovery and want to see the Grand Canyon from a refreshingly different angle, this tour could be just the adventure you need.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from Laughlin, NV, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time, stops, and exploration at the canyon’s bottom and Route 66.

Are park tickets included?
Yes, your Grand Canyon park tickets are included, saving you time waiting in line and simplifying the experience.

What should I wear on the trip?
Dress comfortably for outdoor activity; be prepared for some dirt and uneven terrain, especially when at the canyon’s bottom.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the rough terrain and long day might be better suited for older children or teenagers who can handle the outdoor elements.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start aren’t eligible for a refund.

This trip offers a fulfilling way to see the Grand Canyon’s hidden depths while enjoying the nostalgia of Route 66. It’s a day that combines natural beauty, history, and some good old-fashioned Americana—perfect for those looking to enrich their trip with a memorable adventure.