Grand Canyon Journey to the Bottom Tour on Historic Route 66

An Authentic Adventure to the Bottom of the Grand Canyon on Historic Route 66

If you’re eager to see the Grand Canyon from a different perspective, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. Priced at $299 per person and lasting about a full day, it promises a unique experience — reaching the bottom of the canyon via the only road that gets you there. Your journey includes a scenic drive along Historic Route 66, a visit to the famed Hackberry General Store, and a chance to pull right up to the Colorado River.

What we love about this tour are its personalized guides—friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories — and the opportunity to see wildlife and the canyon’s rugged beauty up close. The fact that you’re transported directly to the river for lunch at Hualapai Lodge adds a real sense of adventure and authenticity.

A possible consideration is that weather or road closures can sometimes lead to cancellations, especially in certain seasons, so flexibility might be needed. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience without sacrificing the chance to explore off the beaten path, especially those interested in historic Route 66 and natural scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Exclusive access via the only road to the canyon’s bottom
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and safety
• Includes park tickets, lunch, and scenic drive on historic Route 66
• Wildlife sightings add an exciting element to the trip
• Pull right up to the Colorado River for spectacular views
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind

An In-Depth Look at the Grand Canyon Journey to the Bottom Tour

What the Tour Includes and How It’s Structured

This full-day adventure is designed to give you a comprehensive experience of the Grand Canyon’s depths, history, and surroundings. The tour begins with casino pickup and drop-off in a white van labeled “Laughlin Tours”, making it convenient if you’re staying in Laughlin or nearby. The transportation is comfortable, and water is provided, but bringing along additional drinks or snacks is encouraged to stay refreshed during the day.

Your guide, a trained local expert, will lead you through the day’s highlights. They are recognized for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, which adds a personal touch that many travelers find invaluable. The tickets to the park are included, so there’s no need to worry about extra fees at the entrance.

Journey to the Bottom of the Canyon

Unlike most visits that stay on the rim, this tour actually takes you down to the bottom of the canyon via the only existing road. This is a major perk because it offers an up-close view of the Colorado River and allows you to experience the canyon’s raw, rugged environment. Upon arrival, you’ll have a chance to sit by the river, take photos, and soak in the scenery — an experience that many reviewers describe as quite memorable.

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Lunch at Hualapai Lodge

Lunch is included in the tour, served at the Hualapai Lodge, giving you a break and a chance to relax. The lodge is a comfortable spot with good food options, and it provides a nice contrast to the outdoor adventure, especially if the weather is warm or rainy. Since the weather can be cooler near the river, packing a jacket is a smart move, particularly in winter or early spring.

Scenic Drive on Historic Route 66

One of the most enjoyable parts of the tour is the extended drive along Historic Route 66. This legendary highway is packed with nostalgia and classic Americana. You’ll make a stop at the Hackberry General Store, a favored spot for travelers seeking authentic Route 66 memorabilia and a glimpse of mid-20th-century Americana. Many reviewers love this stop for its quirky charm and the photo opportunities it provides.

Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Throughout the day, you’ll notice abundant wildlife, which adds an exciting element to the trip. From birds flying overhead to small mammals along the roadside, the landscape’s natural inhabitants bring the scenery to life. The guides often point out interesting flora and fauna, making this a more engaging experience than just sightseeing.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, emphasizing how their insights made the experience richer and more informative. One traveler noted that the guides “really knew their stuff” and made the day feel personalized.

Some travelers mention that the weather can impact the trip — colder temperatures at the bottom of the canyon and occasional road closures mean flexibility is helpful. However, most agree that the value of visiting the canyon’s depths and experiencing Route 66 outweighs these concerns.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is ideal for adventure seekers, history buffs, or anyone curious about seeing the canyon from below. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy historic roads and Americana, as well as those who prefer a guided, all-inclusive day that minimizes planning hassle. Since children under 12 are not recommended, it’s better suited for older kids and adults interested in outdoor scenery and history.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $299, the trip packages in a lot of what makes the Grand Canyon special — direct access to the bottom, scenic drives, and guidance from local experts. The inclusion of park tickets, lunch, and the Route 66 experience makes it a well-rounded option without hidden costs.

The tour’s flexible cancellation policy (cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund) adds peace of mind, especially in unpredictable weather months. Plus, the “reserve now & pay later” option allows you to lock in your spot without immediate payment, which is handy for planning.

Final Thoughts

This Grand Canyon Journey to the Bottom tour offers a rare chance to see the canyon’s depths, enjoy a scenic nostalgia trip along Historic Route 66, and experience the natural beauty and wildlife of the area — all in one day. The friendly, knowledgeable guides truly make the difference, providing insights that enrich your understanding of this incredible landscape.

While the price might seem steep for some, the inclusion of park tickets, lunch, and a memorable drive combined with the unique experience of descending to the bottom of the canyon make it a sample of true value for those looking to see more than just the rim.

If you’re eager for a guided adventure that takes you off the typical tourist path, this tour offers authenticity, comfort, and a dash of Americana. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, worry-free day that combines natural beauty with historic charm.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes casino pickup and drop-off, a trained guide, park tickets, lunch at Hualapai Lodge, and waters in the van.

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, children under 12 are not suitable for this trip based on the tour description.

How long does the tour last?
It is a one-day tour, approximately 8-10 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Is the tour canceled if the weather is bad?
Yes, depending on the weather, the tour could cancel, especially if roads are closed in winter or during adverse conditions.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bringing a jacket is recommended since it can be cooler near the river, especially in colder seasons. Additional drinks or snacks are also encouraged.

What makes this tour different from other Grand Canyon trips?
The key difference is access to the bottom via the only existing road, plus the combination of scenic Route 66 drive and wildlife sightings.

Can I customize the experience?
Since this is a guided tour with included stops, customization options are limited. However, the guides aim to provide a personalized experience.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included and is recommended if you enjoy the service provided by your guides.

What should I expect in terms of group size?
The description doesn’t specify, but typically these tours are designed to be manageable, with enough space for interaction but not overly crowded.

This tour offers a compelling blend of natural marvels, historic roads, and guided expertise — perfect for travelers eager to deepen their Grand Canyon experience beyond the usual rim views.

You can check availability for your dates here: