Planning a Grand Canyon Trip from Connecticut with a Redwood Loop: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you planning a memorable trip to the Grand Canyon? We have created a detailed route and itinerary to help you make the most of your three-week adventure from Connecticut, with a loop through the Redwoods included. This plan offers a wonderful balance of driving time, urban experiences, and stunning natural landscapes.

Suggested Route and Itinerary

Week 1: Connecticut to Grand Canyon

Day 1-2: Connecticut to Cleveland, OH

Drive Time: Approximately 10 hours Stop: Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art

Day 3: Cleveland, OH to Chicago, IL

Drive Time: Approximately 5-6 hours Stop: Explore Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and enjoy a deep-dish pizza

Day 4-5: Chicago, IL to St. Louis, MO

Drive Time: Approximately 5 hours Stop: Visit the Gateway Arch, explore Forest Park, and enjoy local BBQ

Day 6-7: St. Louis, MO to Oklahoma City, OK

Drive Time: Approximately 8 hours Stop: Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and explore Bricktown

Week 2: Grand Canyon

Day 8-9: Oklahoma City, OK to Grand Canyon, AZ

Drive Time: Approximately 11 hours (consider breaking this into two days) Stop: Overnight in Amarillo, TX. Visit Cadillac Ranch and Palo Duro Canyon

Day 10-12: Grand Canyon National Park

Activities: Hike the Rim Trail, visit the South Rim, explore the Grand Canyon Village, and consider a helicopter tour for breathtaking views

Day 13: Grand Canyon to Las Vegas, NV (Optional)

Drive Time: Approximately 4-5 hours Stop: Explore the Las Vegas Strip and see a show or visit nearby Red Rock Canyon

Week 3: Return Trip via Redwoods

Day 14: Las Vegas, NV to Yosemite National Park, CA

Drive Time: Approximately 7-8 hours Stop: Depending on your route, you might want to visit Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park

Day 15-16: Yosemite National Park, CA

Activities: Hike to Yosemite Falls, visit El Capitan, and explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Day 17-18: Yosemite to Redwood National and State Parks, CA

Drive Time: Approximately 5-6 hours Stop: Visit the Avenue of the Giants, hike among the towering redwoods

Day 19: Redwood National Park to San Francisco, CA

Drive Time: Approximately 5-6 hours Stop: Explore Golden Gate Park, Fisherman's Wharf, and Alcatraz Island

Day 20-21: San Francisco to Connecticut

Day 20: San Francisco to Denver, CO approximately 17 hours (consider breaking into two days) Day 21: Denver, CO to Connecticut approximately 17 hours (again, consider breaking this into two days)

Tips for the Trip

Plan Your Stops: Make reservations for accommodations in advance, especially in national parks. Pack Accordingly: Be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, especially in the mountains. Stay Flexible: Allow some flexibility in your schedule for detours or additional stops that catch your interest. Vehicle Preparation: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for long drives and consider joining a roadside assistance program.

This route offers a mix of urban experiences, cultural sites, and stunning natural landscapes, making for a memorable trip! Safe travels!