Grand Canyon Journey to the Bottom Tour on Historic Route 66

Exploring the Grand Canyon Bottom and Route 66 in One Day: An Honest Review

Getting to the bottom of the Grand Canyon is a feat many travelers dream about, but only a few manage to do in a single day. The Grand Canyon Journey to the Bottom Tour on Historic Route 66 offers a rare opportunity to experience this natural wonder with the added nostalgia of a scenic drive along Historic Route 66. With a price of $299 per person, the tour includes park tickets, lunch, and transportation—making it a compelling option for those seeking a streamlined yet authentic adventure.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines the thrill of visiting the least accessible part of the Grand Canyon with a leisurely drive along one of America’s most iconic highways. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly, and caring approach, adding a personal touch that makes the day memorable. That said, it’s a long day with some early starts, so travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning multiple stops or worrying about transportation logistics. It’s particularly perfect for travelers who appreciate narrative-rich guides, scenic drives, and the chance to get up close to the Colorado River. It might, however, be less suitable for families with young children or anyone with mobility issues due to the full-day itinerary and walking components.

Key Points

• Unique access: The only road in existence that reaches the bottom of the Grand Canyon, offering a rare and thrilling experience.
• Expert guides: Known for their friendliness and extensive knowledge, guides enrich the trip with personal insights.
• Historic route: A scenic drive along Route 66, including a stop at Hackberry General Store—perfect for nostalgic travelers.
• Wildlife and scenery: Expect plenty of local wildlife and stunning views both at the rim and at the river.
• Convenient transportation: Pickup and drop-off at multiple Laughlin locations, with a comfortable van and included park tickets.
• Limited flexibility: The schedule is fixed, and weather or road closures could lead to cancellations.

A Deeper Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Early Drives

The adventure kicks off with pickup from one of seven departure points in Laughlin, making it convenient regardless of where you’re staying. The tour uses a white van with “Laughlin Tours” clearly marked, which helps avoid confusion. You’ll be driven in a comfortable vehicle, with water available throughout the day—though bringing your own drinks or snacks is encouraged, especially if you have specific preferences or dietary needs.

The first part of the day involves about an hour in the van, giving you time to relax and get familiar with your guides. Due to the early start, packing a light breakfast or enjoying a hearty meal beforehand can set you up for the day.

The Drive to the Bottom of the Grand Canyon

The highlight of the journey is the drive along the only road in existence that descends into the Grand Canyon’s depths. This unique route offers views and access unavailable by other means, making it an experience you won’t find elsewhere. Travelers who have gone on this tour mention how exciting it is to actually drive to the river, pulling right up to the Colorado River—something many visitors only dream of doing.

A notable aspect is how the guides manage the day—balancing informative commentary with storytelling, they keep the atmosphere engaging. Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge, with one reviewer praising their ability to answer questions and share little-known facts about the canyon and local wildlife.

Scenic Stop and Guided Exploration

After a roughly 20-minute scenic drive on the canyon rim, the group stops for a guided tour and sightseeing at the bottom of the canyon. This part lasts about an hour, during which you’ll have the chance to take photos, walk along designated paths, and hear stories about the canyon’s geology and history. The guides often share insights that go beyond typical script, making the experience richer and more personal.

Travelers have appreciated the opportunity to witness wildlife and the natural beauty in this remote spot. The coolness of the river area, often a few degrees lower than the rim, is a welcome relief, especially in warmer months. Remember to bring a jacket if you’re sensitive to cooler temperatures.

Lunch at Hualapai Lodge

Midday, the tour includes a sit-down lunch at the Hualapai Lodge—a nice break after exploring. Reviewers have noted that the lunch is straightforward but satisfying, providing a good variety of options and a chance to relax and chat with fellow travelers. The lodge’s location offers some nice views and a chance to stretch your legs before heading back.

The Route 66 Nostalgia Stop: Hackberry General Store

On the way back, the tour makes a nostalgic stop at the Famous Route 66 Hackberry General Store. Here, travelers can browse vintage memorabilia, quirky souvenirs, and enjoy a bit of classic Americana. Several reviews mention this as a highlight, particularly for those interested in classic road trip culture or looking for unique keepsakes.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

The day wraps up with about two hours of van travel back to the original pickup points, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights. The drop-off locations mirror the pickup points, making this a convenient end to your adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

While many Grand Canyon tours focus on the rim or helicopter views, this one’s main appeal is the chance to actually reach the canyon floor via the only road that gets you there. This means standing at the river’s edge and seeing the canyon from a perspective most visitors miss. It’s especially valued by travelers craving a more authentic, up-close encounter with this natural marvel.

The guides’ expertise is repeatedly praised, and their ability to deliver insightful commentary while ensuring safety and comfort is a key reason this tour gets a solid 4.7 rating overall. Their friendly, caring approach makes the experience welcoming, especially for those new to the area or hesitant about the rough and tumble of canyon exploration.

Practical Considerations

The tour is priced at $299—an investment, but one that includes park tickets, lunch, transportation, and the guided experience**, which would cost quite a bit if booked separately. It’s a good way to see the canyon’s interior without the hassle of organizing multiple permits or transport.

However, this is a full-day experience—expect early mornings and long hours on the road. The weather can vary, with cooler temperatures at the bottom of the canyon, so packing a jacket is wise. The tour’s schedule is fixed, and weather or road conditions may cause cancellations, so booking with flexibility (reserve & pay later) is recommended.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in the canyon’s less accessible depths. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a balanced mix of scenic drive, wildlife spotting, and cultural stops. Not suitable for children under 12, given the full-day commitment and walking involved.

Summary of the Value

Travelers searching for a rare opportunity to get down into the Grand Canyon’s bottom will find this tour offers unique access and insider knowledge. The inclusion of a scenic Route 66 drive adds a nostalgic flair that appeals to road trip lovers. The guides’ friendly demeanor and expertise elevate the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to a memorable adventure.

The price point of $299 is justified when considering the comprehensive package—park entrance, lunch, transportation, and guided commentary—eliminating the need for additional planning or expenses. The tour’s logistics tend to run smoothly, with convenient pickup and drop-off points in Laughlin.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an authentic, accessible way to see the canyon below the rim and enjoy a nostalgic drive along a historic highway. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re after photos, wildlife, and insider stories that bring the canyon to life in a way that few other tours can match.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12 years due to the full-day schedule and walking involved.

What should I bring with me?
Bring a jacket for the cooler temperatures at the canyon bottom, plus any drinks or snacks you prefer. The van provides free water, but you can bring additional food or beverages.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather or road closures can lead to cancellations. It’s advisable to book with a flexible reservation option and check the weather forecast before your trip.

Are park tickets included?
Yes, park tickets are included in the tour price, making it easier to access the canyon and avoid long lines.

How long is each stop?
Stops at the canyon bottom last about an hour, with additional time allocated for scenic drives and the stop at Hackberry General Store.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a clean, well-marked white van with “Laughlin Tours,” and reviewers found the ride comfortable for the full day.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, you’re encouraged to bring snacks or drinks if you like, although lunch is included at Hualapai Lodge.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The chance to drive to the bottom of the Grand Canyon via the only road that reaches it, combined with engaging guides and a scenic Route 66 experience.

To sum it up, this tour offers a rare chance to step into the Canyon’s depths and enjoy a nostalgic drive along Route 66, all in one day. It’s especially suitable for adventurous travelers eager to see the canyon from a unique perspective, supported by knowledgeable guides who add value with their insights. With good planning and a sense of adventure, it’s one of the most rewarding ways to experience this iconic landscape—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.