Covering an area over 277 miles long and 18 miles wide, planning a trip to the Grand Canyon is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation destination that requires days of exploration. Whether you are ready to explore the North Rim or the South Rim or want to spend your days floating down one of the nearby waterways, there are plenty of vacation rentals near the canyon to help you enjoy your stay. These are 12 of the best places to search for your Grand Canyon vacation rental so that you can have the best possible experience.
1. Williams, Arizona
Named after the early-day Arizona trapper Bill Williams, Williams, Arizona, is situated along Route 66 approximately 60 miles from the South entrance of the Grand Canyon. Take a stagecoach tour of the canyon, go hunting for deer, elk, mountain lions, and bear, or in the winter go sledding or cross country skiing. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars for a quick escape from your vacation rental.
2. Explore Flagstaff
Home to ArizonaÂ’s tallest mountain, Flagstaff is the perfect place to grab a vacation rental when exploring the Grand Canyon and surrounding region. Visit the Native American pueblo sites or stop by the Walnut Canyon National Monument to take a peek inside the cliff dwellings. The city sits approximately 70 miles south of the South Rim.
3. Grand Canyon North Rim
The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is just south of Jacob Lake along Highway 67. While this area of the canyon is slightly more remote than the south end, the views can’t be missed. Make sure you pack your hiking boots when heading to your vacation rental because there are numerous trails in the vicinity to explore. Visit the Desert View Watchtower or Bright Angel point for an expansive view of the canyon.
4. Grand Canyon South Rim
Vacation rentals near the South Rim of the canyon put you close to plenty of outdoor activities. Tour the historic district of the Grand Canyon village, or book a bus tour to stop at the various viewing points along the canyon edge. The South Rim is near the Tusayan community where there are numerous gift shops, an information center and plenty of restaurants.
5. Meadview
Meadview is a small town located where the western portion of the Grand Canyon ends. Those choosing vacation rentals near Meadview experience slightly cooler summers and warmer winters than some of the surround mountain areas. The Hoover Dam lies approximately 40 miles away, and there are plenty of caves and cliffs to explore.
6. Sedona
Located near Flagstaff, Sedona is the perfect spot for those looking for vacation rentals away from the hustle and bustle of city life. After a hike in the canyon, you can spend the day being pampered at one of the local spas, or stroll the stalls at the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village. Schedule a hot air balloon ride over the soaring red cliffs, or hop in your four-wheel drive and spend the day on an off-road adventure.
7. Tuba City
If you want to explore the culture of the Navajo Nation, Tuba City is the largest Navajo settlement in Arizona. Vacation rentals near the small community are ideal for those who appreciate the peace and quiet. In Tuba City, you can stop and view the dinosaur tracks, or take the family to the Navajo Interactive Museum. Take a trip to the trading post and sample the local wares or purchase some crafts and gift items for friends back home.
8. Kaibab National Forest
The Kaibab National Forest offers solitude and the opportunity to become one with nature. When staying in a vacation rental, that you may encounter any number of wildlife including bison near the North Rim of the canyon and the California condor. Visit the Canyon uranium mine, or drive along the North Rim scenic byway to view the uncrowded landscapes.
9. Coconino National Forest
Located near Flagstaff, the Coconino National Forest is the perfect place to look for a vacation rental. Go hiking or horseback riding in the Red Rock district, or explore the ancient wetlands. Slide down a natural waterslide in Red Rock country, or pack a picnic lunch and take a hike in the backcountry.
10. Cataract Lake
One of the most popular attractions near Cataract Lake for vacation rentals is the falls. The trail up to the falls is approximately two miles with a slight incline, which makes it ideal for all skill levels. Grab a fishing boat and fish for bluegill, black crappie or largemouth bass or sit along the bank and watch the waterfowl.
11. Lake Powell
A major spot for vacation rentals, Lake Powel is located along the border between Utah and Arizona. While it is about 180 miles from the Grand Canyon, it offers a scenic day trip that is easy to navigate. Head towards the Glen Canyon Recreational area for boating, fishing and sunbathing. Lake Powell is the second largest man-made lake in America and features beautiful red rock cliffs and the Lake Powell dam.
12. Lake Mead
Lake Mead is another popular vacation rental spot for those visiting the Grand Canyon. The largest reservoir in the United States, Lake Mead provides water to over 20 million people in the area. Visit the Hoover Dam, take a kayak tour along the Colorado River, or go fishing in the peaceful Overton Arm of the lake. When you want to dry your feet, take a helicopter tour of the dam, or have a picnic at Hemenway Park and go cycling or just stop and watch the big horn sheep.