best scenic route from Albuquerque to Grand Canyon?

[rwjoyak]

You're welcome.
Please report back after your trip and let us know what you saw, what you liked best, etc.

[Poncho_NM]

Originally Posted by wanderlustosis

The internet is full of so many options , I'm looking for a personal opinion.

I'd like to know the best scenic route from Albuquerque to the Grand Canyon and from there to Monument Valley.

I don't care about museums or galleries on this trip, I want the best view out of my car window and cool places to stop on this route, and it doesn't necessarily have to be the quickest route.

I have driven to the Grand Canyon four times. The South Rim three times, and the last time was the North Rim in 1984. I have also overflown the area in private aircraft. The Grand Canyon is not to be ignored, but there are a lot of things to see on the way, and the Grand Canyon is large.

I've looked at rwjoyak's trip plan, looks good to me. I may borrow that with credit given...

I did not see Bryce Canyon National Park mentioned which was a place on my list to return to from our 1984 trip, followed by Zion National Park.

[rwjoyak]

Originally Posted by Poncho_NM

I did not see Bryce Canyon National Park mentioned which was a place on my list to return to from our 1984 trip, followed by Zion National Park.

There's definitely more in Utah to see, it's all a question of how far/long you want to detour off of heading from ABQ to the GC. Bryce and Zion are great, but there's also Capitol Reef, Canyonlands and Arches. Figured I wouldn't take the OP that far afield, but I agree those are also not to be missed if you have the time.

[H. Fisher]

Originally Posted by GregW

I suggest getting the Benchmark Maps Arizona and New Mexico Road and Recreation Atlases. These have larger scale maps with much greater detail as well as extensive lists of Recreation and Historical places. GTR Publishing also has very useful maps.

Does anyone know abt the Amtrak train from Abq to Williams Az. to take the little train ride up to the Grand Canyon ??

[bzm]

thank you rwjoyak, I will be using your guide, taking the kids on a road trip to the grand canyon from Albuquerque NM.
love your planning, made my life so much easier thank you once again!!!!!