I’m sure you’d agree with me when I say that the USA is the number one road trip destination on earth. From visiting amazing National Parks to witnessing natural wonders like the Grand Canyon firsthand, it’s no wonder why!

After converting and living in my own van in Australia, I was itching for a short-stint van life opportunity in the USA.

So, I did some research. I compared all the best options and finally landed on the perfect van for my own epic road trip through Southwest USA.

To save you the same trouble, I’ve now compiled this resource to help other aspiring van lifers plan your own adventures. I’ve included a list of what to look for in road trip vans, outlined the best camper van rental companies, and included tips to make the most of your travels to see this amazing country.

Hiring Road Trip Vans in the USA

So, are you planning that Great American road trip of a lifetime? Is this your first time embarking on a road trip or renting a van?

You're not alone. The van life movement is exploding globally, and hiring a camper van is one of the absolute best ways to hit the road and have the time of your life with family and friends.

Again, this resource is mostly dedicated to those who are van life curious, or simply want an amazing, one-off campervan road trip experience without buying or building their own rig.

Therefore, most of the tips in this article involve the in's and out's of camper van rentals. Here are some quick things you'll want to know before we get any further.

• There are lots of travel van rentals to choose from in the USA
• You can drive anything that is Class B certified with a regular driver's license.
• Most good camper van rentals are set up as road trip vans, with everything you need to cook, clean, live, and adventure out of!
• These vans are much easier to drive than huge RV rigs. This gives you more flexibility of where you can actually go.
• There are some limitations on where you can take the vehicle (dirt roads etc)

What to Look For in a Camper Van Rental

Depending on your budget and expected comfort level, there are lots of variations on what you might be looking for in a van for your road trip.

However, there are some things that most vans should all have as a basic requirement.

The Quick Answer

Short on time and just want the quick answer? After reviewing several rental campers in the USA, the best of the bunch is Travellers Autobarn.

These vans feature everything you need for a road trip and come in cheaper than many other alternatives.

See the Vans from TA

Must-Have Inclusions For Road Trips

When planning your trip and looking for the perfect van, make sure it includes the following. It'll make your experience a much more enjoyable one!

1. Adequate Storage Space

Storage is by far one of the most important aspects of choosing a van. Trust me, you're just not going to enjoy your road trip if you're living, cooking, and sleeping in a pile of your own clothes and gear.

Every van should have storage compartments for the essentials including;

• All of your clothes (think bulky jackets)
• Food (pantry space)
• Dirty clothes items like hiking boots, sneakers, wet jackets
• Cooking items (pots, pans, cutlery, kitchen utensils, etc)
• Backpacks, day-trip bags, suitcases

2. A Fridge

If you're going to be living out of a van, you'll need a fridge.

Don't worry, this is something that's a standard inclusion in most vans for hire. A small, 20 gallon 12V fridge is more than adequate for life on the road.

3. A Comfortable Bed

Okay, you probably won't find camper vans with orthopedic mattresses. But that doesn't mean you want to be sleeping on cardboard either.

If you're going to enjoy your adventures on the road, look for vans with good reviews on comfort.

There are several bed-layout designs that work well in a van. Depending on the size, you could find fixed beds with under-bed storage, or fold-down double beds (best for smaller vans), that convert into a table and living space during the day.

4. Adequate Electrical System

These days, a battery setup and van electrical system that's capable of charing your devices is really not too much to ask for. If you're considering renting a van without a separate house battery, forget it. You don't want to have to pay for a campsite every night just to charge your phone.

These van electrical systems can vary greatly, from huge inverter setups that run induction cooktops, to basic, 100 amp hour batteries with 12V and USB connections.

As a basic starting point, you'll want;

• USB outlets
• 12V lights inside. These should run off the battery and work off-grid
• Enough power to run the fridge

5. Two Water Tanks

What, why two tanks?

You're going to want one water tank for fresh water and one for gray water. Let me explain the difference.

You'll use a freshwater tank to store and access clean water for drinking, cooking and washing dishes. The size isn't too important, as you'll almost always find freshwater taps and clean drinking water in the United States.

A gray water, or sullage tank, is where the dirty water from your dishes runs into. Avoid choosing vans for a road trip without a gray water tank, as you might have issues in National Parks and State Parks if you simply dump your dirty water on the ground.

The gray water tank should have a dump valve underneath the van. It's safe and environmentally friendly to dump this water down the drain or at dump sites once you're back in a town (it's just food with water and a bit of soap in it). Just don't dump it in National Forests.

6. Cooking Appliances (ideally inside)

You don't want to have to eat at Denny's or McDonalds every day. Cooking your own food on a road trip should be easy and part of the experience.

All good camper vans should have cooking appliances to allow you to do this. If you're on a budget, a small butane camping stove might be adequate.

However, for the best experience, try to pick a van with a built-in gas stove. Speaking from experience, being able to cook inside comfortably when it's bucketing down rain is a lifesaver!

For safety's sake, the gas cylinder should be located in its own compartment. Furthermore, you'll want to make sure you can turn the valve to off when you're driving.

A microwave is also very handy when on the road. However, keep in mind that most rental campers require you to hook up to the grid (at a campsite) to run the microwave.

Tip: Make sure your van comes with all the kitchen utensils, cutlery, and appliances you need.

7. A Reliable Engine

This goes without saying. While most good camper van rental companies will offer roadside assistance if you break down, the truth is that you're just not going to get that time back.

If you choose the cheapest, oldest van, the chances of an issue occuring are much higher.

But, that doesn't mean you can't find a budget road trip van that is also reliable. Read reviews, check the mileage, and make sure the company doesn't charge you for breakdowns that are their fault.

Tip: Diesel vans are the cheapest to run in the USA, get the best mileage per tank, and are the most reliable.

8. AC & Heating in the Driver's Seat

Okay, every car should have heating and AC these days. However, you'd be surprised just how many rental vans have issues with this basic feature.

When you pick up your van, you'll want to check that this is working. There's nothing worse than driving 400 miles through Utah in summer without AC!

9. Space For the Crew

From going on a solo road trip to packing in the whole family, this last essential is a no-brainer.

Make sure there is a bed and seat for everyone tagging along! That might mean picking larger RVs if you're bringing more than three people.

10. Camp Chairs & Other Outdoor Basics

Camper van road trips are all about experiencing the outdoors! Most good rental companies will include camp chairs and a small portable camp table for your picnics and downtime in the outdoors.

11. Roof Hatch or Vent

If you're traveling around the USA in a van, you'll want a decent roof vent. Most good camper vans come with a vent that opens up and has a fan attached to it. This is excellent for ventilation while cooking and sleeping in hot weather.

The "Optionals"

The above eight features should be standard in any camper van rental, especially for a long road trip.

You might not think you'll need some of them, but if you're going to be spending more than a week living out of the van, my advice is to treat the above as a must-have checklist.

Now, what about things that aren't really necessary, but can make the road trip experience more enjoyable?

1. A Toilet Or Port-a-potty

The truth is, having a toilet in a camper van is usually an unnecessary (not so luxurious) luxury.

While it is nice to be able to do your business without stepping out of the van, most people simply don't want to squeeze out a number two in front of their sleeping wife or kids. But, if you're planning to rent a larger van for the whole family, picking one with a separate bathroom, can be quite handy.

With that said, if you're traveling in the USA, there's no shortage of gas stations or public toilets where you can do your business. That's why I'd say that a toilet is usually not a must-have.

2. A Hot Shower System

You'll be hard-pressed to find a camper van rental in the USA that includes an inbuilt hot shower. Truthfully, this is something you probably don't need if you're going on a short road trip.

Many campsites and campgrounds in the USA have showers. If you're hard-pressed for one, you can also shower at gas stations and truck stops like Flying J's.

Alternatively, many great rental companies include a solar shower. Or, you could just buy one cheaply and bring it with you. These are great when camped up for the day and cost less than $20!

Some companies offer this for an additional charge, but it's often cheaper just to buy your own.

3. Other Bells & Whistles

While van life looks glamorous on Instagram, morning espressos and central heating is not what road trips are about.

Okay, a few creature comforts go a long way if you're living in a van. But, if you're driving around the country on a road trip with family or friends, there's really no need to go overboard.

Some of the bells and whistles, that you might see, but probably don't need include;

• Oven - a nice touch but hard to find in a rental van
• In-van AC - you won't be able to run this unless you're hooked up to the grid anyway
• TV & antenna - if you really need your fix, just download Netflix movies on your phone or iPad
• Internet boosters - this is a bit over the top and a bit of a gimmick in my experience

Ask yourself. Do you want to do this trip to get out of your comfort zone and experience the simplicity of life in the outdoors? If it's a yes, you don't need the fifth-wheeler with an attached ensuite and king bed.

What About Solar Panels on a Road Trip Van?

Solar panels aren't usually going to make or break the deal when looking for a van to rent. Of course, they're going to be a nice bonus as you'll be able to stay out of paid campgrounds and be more self-sufficient.

Solar power gives you the flexibility of being able to keep your fridge running, even if you're out in the middle of nowhere! This can also save you money as you don't need to pay to hook up to the grid.

But, in saying that, many vans are set up so that the electrical system inside the van charges while you drive. If your van doesn't include solar panels or a solar power setup, it's best to ask if the house battery charges while you drive.

Deciding on the Perfect Road Trip Camper For You

So you know what to look for, and what you might not really need.

Now's the time to decide, what kind of camper van do I need for my road trip?

A common mistake is to simply base your rental decision simply on your budget. What I mean is that even if you have an unlimited budget, do you really want a massive van with all the features? This will be hard to maneuver (especially for first-timers), and you won't be able to get down some unsealed roads in the National Parks.

Instead, ask yourself these questions when wondering what type of van is right for you;

1. How long is the road trip?
2. Where do I actually want to go?
3. Which season & time of year will I be going?
4. How many people are coming?
5. What kind of road trip am I doing? Am I going from city to city, or spending a bunch of time in the outdoors & small towns?
6. What kind of extra gear am I bringing? Do I need bike racks or rooftop storage?

The above questions, combined with your budget, should help you out on your mission to narrow down the perfect road trip vans for your trip.

Best USA Road Trip Van Rentals

To make the decisions even easier for you, I've narrowed down the top three road trip camper van rentals below.

My Favorite: Travellers Autobarn

Travellers Autobarn has long been the perfect choice for camper rentals in Australia and New Zealand.

Their designs and layouts have proven to be very successful in these harsh environments and have now made a move to the USA (currently West Coast). This is great news for people searching for the perfect camper, because (spoiler alert), Travellers Autobarn offers the most bang for your buck on this list.

Travellers Autobarn USA offer several road trip vans to hire. But, if you're going to pick one, I'd definitely recommend the Kuga, which are the best vans they make.

This hightop Chevrolet Express accommodates 2-3 people and features;

• Full indoor kitchen (gas cooker, microwave, sink)
• Clean, modern interior
• Plenty of storage space
• Folding, double bed design
• 12V Fridge (Dometic)
• Solar panels and great electrical system (USB, 12V outlets, shore power with 120V outlets)
• Freshwater & gray water tanks

I've lived in budget camper vans in New Zealand, as well as my own fully-kitted out Ford Transit van home in Australia.

Verdict: After driving around the Western United States in a Travellers Autobarn van, I was pleasantly surprised at just how comfortable and practical the Kuga is for the size. They fit in all spaces in all the parking lots I've visited, which is a huge thing for campers! In my opinion, Travellers Autobarn offers the best vans for road-tripping in the USA.

Rental Locations

Currently Travellers Autobarn have pickup and drop-off locations in Las Angeles, San Francisco, and Las Vegas, with additional locations like Denver and Seattle coming soon.

Outdoorsy (Rental Platform)

Outdoorsy is an alternative option for renting camper vans in the USA. Instead of a traditional rental model, think of Outdoorsy as the van life AirBnB.

The perks of renting on Outdoorsy is that you can sometimes find great deals on awesome, luxury road trip vans, larger RVs, and niche van life setups. Also, since you're hiring from van owners, not a company, there is more flexibility in terms of pickup locations. You can even have the van delivered to you (for an additional cost)!

If you like the sound of Outdoorsy, some of the best vans to look for are:

• Mercedes-benz Sprinter Van (Sprinter Cargo Van)
• Ford Transits (or the smaller, Ford Transit Connect)
• Dodge Ram Promaster

However, keep in mind that you most likely will often need to drop the van off at the same location you picked it up in. This makes longer road trips a bit more tricky.

Also, there are additional charges, fees, and insurance that are required when renting from private parties.

Verdict: Outdoorsy is a great platform, especially if you're looking for a niche van. However, there are some pitfalls, like availability, pricing, and insurance.

Escape Campervan Rentals

The third and final road trip rental van company is Escape Campervans. You most likely would have seen these vans around, since they're notoriously hard to miss!

Escape camper van rentals offer four vehicle options, and are mostly catering for the budget crowd. Their vans are typically smaller (and shorter), than Travellers Autobarn vans, but often feature rooftop tents.

Their Big Sur vans are their best rig and feature:

• Small kitchen (gas cooker, kitchen sink)
• Rear bucket seats
• Plenty of storage space & drawers
• Plenty of windows
• 12V Fridge (Dometic)
• Basic electrical system (12V outlets, USB ports)
• 5 Gallon Freshwater tank

Escape offer decent budget options. Their vans are clean and offer a no-frills, simplistic approach to van life road trips.

Verdict: In my opinion, one of the most crucial parts of renting a campervan is space. Unfortunately, Outdoorsy don't offer hightop campervans like Travellers Autobarn at a similar price point. Therefore, if you're looking to rent a camper in the regions Travellers Autobarn offer pickups, I'd choose them over Escape.

Rental Locations

You'll find Escape Campervan rental locations across the USA, including the East Coast, Pacific Northwest and some Canadian locations;

• Calgary, AB
• Chicago, IL
• Denver, CO
• Las Vegas, NV
• Los Angeles, CA
• New York, NY
• Orlando, FL
• Phoenix, AZ
• Portland, OR
• Salt Lake City, UT
• San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA
• Vancouver, BC

More Camper Rental Options

The above three should have most people covered and spoilt for choice. But, to make this the most comprehensive guide, I've included more options below.

• Native Campervans
• Vintage Surfari Wagons
• Peace Vans

More Tips & Things to Know

Before you depart, here are some last essential tips.

• You need a credit card on file for all camper van rentals in the USA
• Careful of insurance add-ons and plan for this extra charge
• Of course, stick to the speed limit
• Prepare for toll roads
• If you are flexible, there are much better deals in the low season (winter)

About the National Parks Pass

It's no secret that renting a van and going on a road trip is the best way to see North America's amazing National Parks.

As a little tip before you hit the road, make sure to pick up an America the Beautiful Annual Pass. This only costs $80 per vehicle, and will definitely save you money if you're planning to visit three or more parks.

Ready For Full Time Van Life? - Converting Your Own Van

I've given you the low down on road trip vans for rent. But, if you're ready to step it up a notch and convert your very own van for full-time van life, check out my comprehensive van conversion guide.

This is the most detailed, free guide to converting a camper van you'll find online. While it features my build in Australia, the truth is you can apply this resource to any van (not just Ford Transits), anywhere in the world.

Road Trip Inspiration: Read More

I hope that this guide to road trip vans in the USA has helped you pick the perfect camper van rental for your next road trip through the USA.

While you're still here, make sure to check out some of my other articles. You'll find loads of up-to-date inspiration for your trip, as well as some detailed guides to help you make the most of it.

• 10 Best Grand Canyon Views - Don't Miss These South Rim Viewpoints
• Digital Nomad Packing List - 15 Practical Things Everyone Needs in 2023
• Lower Emerald Pool Trail - Awesome Pools & Waterfall in Zion National Park
• NASA Space Center in Houston TX: Tips For Cheap Nasa Houston Tickets in 2023

The post Best Road Trip Vans: How to Pick Camper Van Rentals in the USA appeared first on We Seek Travel.

First-time visitors to The Grand Canyon will undoubtedly be overwhelmed by the sheer scale of this geological marvel. Spanning 277 miles (446 km) of the Colorado River and dropping over a mile deep, the canyon’s magnitude and beauty is boundless, so much so that it has earned a spot on the list of 7 Natural Wonders of the World.

So, ready to visit?

The best place to see the Grand Canyon is to visit the South Rim in Arizona. Here, you’ll find loads of popular viewpoints and scenic hiking trails for spectacular views of Grand Canyon National Park. In this blog post, I’ll outline some of the very best ones, and include some photos that I took from each spot to get you inspired.

Best Grand Canyon Views & Vantage Points

1. Desert View Watchtower & Viewpoint

For those driving into the National Park from the east, your first glimpse of the incredible Grand Canyon will likely be at the Desert View vantage point. This historic viewpoint is located near the very end of Desert View Drive (Arizona State Route 64), a 23-mile (37km) scenic road to the Grand Canyon Village.

At the Desert View Point, you'll get expansive views of the canyon. This includes an iconic 90-degree bend of the Colorado River where it cuts directly into a major uplift. Additionally, from this viewpoint, you'll get to see the famous Granite Gorge and its spectacular rock formations.

Furthermore, it's hard to miss the historic Desert View Watchtower, a National Historic Landmark constructed in 1932. The watchtower blends nicely into the dry, rocky landscape since the design is influenced by the constructions of the Ancestral Puebloan people of the Southwest.

Unfortunately, the upper levels were not open when I visited but I'd say that there would be incredible Grand Canyon views from the top.

At Desert View, you'll also find a very large parking lot and other facilities including restrooms, The Desert View Visitor Centre, and the Grand Canyon Association Park Store (gift shop).

2. Grandview Point

Most people tend to stop at this particular spot on Desert View Drive. That's because it's the Grand Canyon overlook spot with the grandest name.

Grandview Point is located approximately halfway between Desert View Point and the Grand Canyon Village. This pull-over spot is another large parking lot with an amazing vantage point.

This spot offers open, 180-degree, panoramic views of the Grand Canyon and great views of the Colorado River bends to the east.

Grandview Point is also the starting point for one of the steepest hiking trails in Grand Canyon National Park– the Grandview Trail.

3. Ooh Aah Point

Making your way along Desert View Drive towards Mather Point and the Visitor's Center, you'll see plenty of pull-over spots and picnic areas to admire the Grand Canyon including Moran Point, Duck on a Rock Viewpoint, and Shoshone Point.

Many of these stops offer similar views. But, if you're looking for the best Grand Canyon view that is a little unique, consider the 1.8-mile (2.9 km) return hike to Ooh Aah Point along the South Kaibab Trail. This is a great option if you want to escape the crowds along the rim but also don't want to commit to a long full-day trail.

The South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point involves roughly 700 feet of elevation, which you'll both descend and ascend (particularly for the first 1/4 to 1/2 mile) as it's an out-and-back trail. Overall it's not too difficult, but you might want to bring microspikes if you're visiting in winter as it can get slippery!

The view from Ooh Aah Point is unique on this list as it places you within the Grand Canyon, while many of the other viewpoints are along the rim. To get to the trail, pull off on Yaki Point Road and turn left when you see the sign for the South Kaibab Trail.

4. Mather Point

Being located right next to the official Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Mather Point is one of the most popular canyon viewpoints. You'll find it along Desert View Drive when heading west to the Grand Canyon Village. Here, you'll find a couple of large dedicated parking lots where you can leave your car for free.

Mather Point itself is a large, wide platform sitting atop an impressive rock formation. The vertical drop to the bottom of the Grand Canyon is a staggering 7119 feet (2170 m) deep and visitors will get some of the most impressive views northwards across the Granite Gorge.

Visible from this Grand Canyon lookout spot is Bright Angel Canyon and its neighboring prominences including the Isis Temple, Cheops Pyramid, and the Zoroaster Temple. You'll also see Demaray Point, Bradley Point, and Summer Butte from here.

In my opinion, Mather Point and the Visitor Center is a great place to start the Rim Trail. This is an easy, paved path spanning the rim and offers similar views of the Canyon, without bundling up with others at a viewpoint.

5. Yavapai Point

If you're going to walk the Rim Trail from Mather Point, I suggest heading west towards Yavapai Point, especially if you've already stopped at Ooh Aah Point or Yaki Point.

Yavapai Point is another very impressive viewpoint. But, that's not why I've included it in this list of the best Grand Canyon views.

The reason is that here, you'll find the Yavapai Geology Museum (Yavapai Observation Station). This is a small, indoor exhibition where visitors can learn all about the formation and geological history of the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

It's also a great place to orientate yourself and be yet again blown away by the scale when you find out just how far the North Rim viewpoints are from this spot!

Alternatively, for those not too interested in walking the Rim Trail, there's a shuttle bus running from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center near Mather Point to Yavapai Point and the Geology Museum.

6. The Rim Trail

Okay, I've mentioned it a few times already. But, the truth is that the Rim Trail definitely deserves its own spot on this list of best views on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

The Rim Trail is a very long, 12.7 mile (20.4 km), mostly flat and paved track. It stretches all the way from the South Kaibab trailhead in the east, to Hermit's Rest in the west.

Along the path, you'll have incredible views of the Grand Canyon. Walking sections of this track is by far one of the best ways to experience the South Rim. There are also multiple named and unnamed vantage points where you can sit down, rest, and enjoy the spectacular views.

You can access this trail from multiple points, but there is less foot traffic on the eastern side. Dogs are also allowed on the Rim Trail, as long as they are leashed.

7. Bright Angel Trail

One of the most popular long hikes in the Grand Canyon for stunning views is the Bright Angel Trail. This long, steep trail begins just near the Grand Canyon Village and descends over 4300 feet to the base of the Colorado River.

Chances are, if you're visiting some of the other viewpoints on this list, you'll see the etched tracks of the Bright Angel Trail below. You might also spot some keen hikers or even a packing mule or two!

This track is quite steep, with an average grade of about 10%. The truth is if you want to immerse yourself in the Grand Canyon, taking the time to hike the Bright Angel Trail is definitely worth it. There are several turn-around points in the form of resthouses, including:

• Mile-and-a-half Resthouse: 1.6 mi
• Three-mile Resthouse: 3.1 mi
• Indian Garden: 4.9 mi
• River Resthouse: 8 mi

Optionally, for an overnight-hike experience, you could continue on from the Colorado River for another 1.9 miles along the River Trail, which leads to the Bright Angel Campground and Phantom Ranch.

8. Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour (From South Rim)

Would this list of the best Grand Canyon views really be complete without the absolute best view possible? Of course, you're not going to get a better vantage point of this Natural Wonder than from the sky!

If you're interested in making this a trip to remember, I highly recommend booking the Spirit Helicopter Tour. This is the best-reviewed and the most cost-effective helicopter experience departing from the South Rim.

What makes this particular experience so great is that the Spirit Tour gives you some of the best views, flying over the Painted Desert, Kaibab National Forest, and of best of all, the Dragon Corridor, which is the widest and the deepest part of the Grand Canyon!

Alternatively: If you're not yet in Flagstaff or at the South Rim, you can book Grand Canyon helicopter tours from the following locations:

• Helicopter Tour from Vegas
• Helicopter Tour from Phoenix

9. Hopi Point

Making your way east from the Grand Canyon Village, you'll begin the world-renowned Hermit's Road Drive. This is a beautiful forested road following the rim to several vantage points and viewing areas.

One of the most impressive lookout points on Hermit's Road Drive is just 2 miles away at Hopi Point. This popular spot for a canyon overlook provides one of the first glimpses of the river to the west (five in total at Hopi Point) and amazing views of the canyon walls beside it.

Additionally, Hopi point offers some of the best Grand Canyon views for sunset due to its outstretched position. The sun lights up the canyon in a way you really need to see to believe!

As with most of the pull-over areas, there is adequate space for parking and even toilet facilities here.

10. Hermit's Road Drive

The historic Hermit's Road drive isn't exactly one particular viewpoint, but a scenic, historic drive featuring several vantage points you won't want to miss.

Hermit's Road Drive begins from the Grand Canyon Village and stretches all the way to Hermit's Rest, 7 miles (11.2 km) to the west. It's not a very long drive, but it is a little winding and closed to private vehicles during periods of heavy snowfall in Winter.

Along Hermit's Drive, you'll have the option to pull over at:

• Maricopa Point
• Powell Point
• Hopi Point
• Mohave Point
• The Abyss
• Monument Creek Vista
• Pima Point
• Hermit's Rest

Of course, several of these vantage points can get a little repetitive. If you're looking for the best Grand Canyon views on Hermit's Road Drive, I recommend stopping at Hopi Point, Pima Point, and of course Hermit's Rest.

If you're game, you'll find the steep and winding Hermit Trail at the end of this road. This long but scenic hike descends all the way down the Cathedral Stairs to Hermit Creek Campground and the Hermit Rapids on the Colorado River.

What About the Skywalk?

The Grand Canyon Skywalk is one of the newest tourist attractions for the canyon. It's a 2000 feet high glass platform hanging over sheer nothingness!

Unfortunately, the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk is not located near the South Rim. In fact, it's all the way over in Grand Canyon West, a whopping 241-mile drive away! Therefore, I haven't included it on this list of the best views, since it's not at the South Rim nor in the National Park.

However, if you are planning to visit the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, you're in luck as the Skywalk is only a 2.5-hour drive away. Note, you'll need to pay $50 just to get into the grounds and no less than $72 to actually go on the Skywalk glass platform.

In my opinion, it's a much better idea just to pay the $75 for a full day bus tour to the South Rim from Vegas. This way, you'll get a more authentic experience since the South Rim is easily the best place to see the Grand Canyon.

Where to Stay in Grand Canyon National Park

It's no secret that to truly take in the beauty of the Grand Canyon, you'll want to spend at least a couple of days here.

Luckily, there are some great accommodation options both within the National Park and just outside of it. Below I've given you a quick rundown of where to stay close to the canyon.

Stay in Grand Canyon Village: Bright Angel Lodge

Bright Angel Lodge is located within the Grand Canyon Village and is the most popular accommodation in the park. This historic lodge offers amazing cabin accommodation less than 100 feet from the South Rim! There are also three dining facilities on-site and rooms are very affordable considering the amazing location.

Premiere Lodging Just Outside Grand Canyon NP: Grand Canyon Squire Inn

Cable TV and great wifi are two things you probably wouldn't associate with a remote Arizona hotel. However, the Grand Canyon Squire Inn offers that and more, just a quick 10-minutes drive out of the park! This roadside Inn is one of the best places to stay near the park and is complete with a great onsite restaurant, a games room, and even a bowling alley for the family!

Glamping near the Grand Canyon: Wander Camp Grand Canyon

Ever wanted to try glamping? Why not check out this luxury tent accommodation located in a quiet, remote valley just outside of the Grand Canyon National Park, past the Grand Canyon Junction. This accommodation combines luxury with off-grid living. If you want to lay and watch the famous Arizona night sky and be away from it all but still enjoy a comfortable night's sleep, make sure to check out Wander Camp.

Things to Know About Chasing Views at the Grand Canyon

Before we get into this list of the best Grand Canyon views, here are some useful tips for visiting.

• Entry cost: Entry into Grand Canyon National Park is $30 per vehicle. Alternatively, you can purchase an America the Beautiful annual pass for $80. This is valid for all National Parks in the USA.
• Getting around: The Grand Canyon in huge! To see all the best viewpoints, you'll need your own car or join on a tour. Additionally, there are shuttle buses running between main sites and viewpoints like Mather Point (Grand Canyon Visitor Centre) and the Grand Canyon Village.
• The best value bus tour: If you're in Vegas, the best-rated and the most cost-effective way to see the Grand Canyon is to book a spot on the Las Vegas South Rim Bus Tour. This is insane value for a long, 14-15 hour trip. You'll visit some of the best viewpoints and must-see sites for only $75!
• The South Rim: The South Rim is what most consider to be the best place to visit. It's also the home of the Grand Canyon Village. The south side is open year-round, while the North Rim closes during the winter months.
• Microclimates: Due to the huge variation in altitudes, the Grand Canyon experiences its own microclimates. Expect extreme, and rapidly changing weather from blistering heat to unpredictable storms.
• You can take a helicopter trip from Las Vegas: Getting to the Grand Canyon is often the most difficult part about visiting. If you find yourself in Vegas, you can book an epic helicopter trip out there that also tours over the Hoover Dam.
• Private vehicles: The main roads with scenic vantage points at the Grand Canyon South rim are Desert View Road and Hermit Road. These are sealed, well-maintained roads open to Private Vehicles. If you don't have your own car, I recommend comparing prices on Rentalcars.com and DiscoverCars for the best deals in Southwest United States.
• Wild animals: Drive slowly in the Grand Canyon National Park. It's home to many deer and elk and they often cross the roads.

More Amazing Grand Canyon Views At the North Rim

While I hope that I've convinced you that the best views in the Grand Canyon can be found at the South Rim, there are some other points you could also check out.

This includes visiting the North Rim, which is the highest point of the Grand Canyon. The best views at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon include:

• Point Imperial
• Cape Royal
• Bright Angel Point
• Cape Final
• The Widforss Trail

Note that the North Rim is much more remote, and doesn't provide the same easy access as the South Rim.

More Photos from the Grand Canyon South Rim

Below are some more photos that I captured during my visit to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona.

More: US Travel & Road Trip Inspiration

That's a wrap for these detailed travel guide to finding the best views in the Grand Canyon. I hope you've dotted some down for your next visit to the South Rim!

While you're still here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other travel guides. I've got some great content to inspire your Southwest Road Trip, with some useful guides and tips for the best places to stop!

• Best Road Trip Vans: How to Pick Camper Van Rentals in the USA
• Lower Emerald Pool Trail - Awesome Pools & Waterfall in Zion National Park
• NASA Space Center in Houston TX: Tips For Cheap Nasa Houston Tickets in 2023

The post 10 Best Grand Canyon Views – Don’t Miss These South Rim Viewpoints appeared first on We Seek Travel.

The Emerald Pools trail is a small network of walking tracks leading to three sandstone pools in Zion National Park; the Lower Emerald Pools, Middle Pools, and Upper Pools.

In this quick and easy guide, I’ll outline everything you need to know about the shortest trail to the lower pools. However, I’ll also include an alternative, extended route which I took that leads under the Emerald Pools waterfall in Zion National Park and up to the Middle Pool.

Quick Things to Know About Zion National park

Before we get into this hiking guide to the Lower Emerald Pools trail, here are some things a first-time visitor should know about Zion National Park.

• National Parks Pass: Entry to Zion NP costs $35 per vehicle. Alternatively, you can purchase an annual America The Beautiful Parks Pass, which is valid for all National Parks within the USA for $80 per year.
• Zion Canyon Scenic Drive Shuttle: During spring, summer, and fall, private vehicles are not permitted along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, unless staying at the Zion Lodge. Instead, visitors must take the free shuttle service from the Zion Canyon Visitor Centre. The trailhead to the Lower Emerald Pools trail begins near stop number 5: The Zion Lodge.

How to get to the Lower Emerald Pools Trailhead

To get to the Lower Emerald Pools trailhead, you'll need to make your way to the Zion National Park Lodge on the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. If you're visiting during winter, or if you're staying at the Zion Lodge, you can make your way up the scenic drive and park right next to the trailhead.

However, if like most, you're visiting Zion during the other months, the only way to get here is via the free Zion National Park shuttle service. You can book this at the Zion Canyon Visitor Centre.

Once you arrive at the Zion National Park Lodge, pull over on your left (west side of the road), where you'll find a large parking lot accommodating the Emerald Pools trails. Below is a map pin with the exact location.

Lower Emerald Pools Trail: Zion National Park Hiking Guide

• Hiking Distance: 1.2-mile round-trip (1.93 km)
• Duration: About 1 hour
• Elevation: 69 ft/21 meters
• Difficulty: Easy

After arriving at the parking lot, make your way over the Virgin River Bridge immediately to the west. Here, you'll find information boards outlining the basics of the Lower, Middle, and Upper Emerald Pools trails in Zion.

If you're looking for a quick hike to the lower pools to see the waterfall, turn right at the fork immediately after the bridge.

From here, you're in for an easy, yet incredibly scenic hike through the Behunin Canyon to the Lower Emerald Pools. This trail seems to have breathtaking vistas and photogenic vantage points at every turn. You'll get excellent views of Lady Mountain, Mount Zion, Mount Majestic, and the Great White Throne.

While you might take longer due to all the photo stops, you certainly won't get lost.

This trail is very easy to follow and is well-graded and signed. Being one of the most popular trails in Zion National Park (besides Angels Landing or the Narrows), you'd expect nothing less. However, be aware that there are several steep drop-offs and sections where falling is a possibility. With that said, the lower pools trail is quite wide with very little incline, making it an easy hike for most.

In fact, this hiking trail is accessible to those in a wheelchair, assuming they have assistance.

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Lower Emerald Pools

After just over half a mile, you'll arrive at the waterfall flowing above the Lower Emerald Pools. There's a viewing area beneath the alcove where you can admire the waterfall.

Below are some photos that I took on my recent visit that I hope will inspire you to hit the trail!

Waterfall in Zion National Park

The two waterfalls you see at the Lower Emerald Pools is spill off from the Middle Pools, which is just above the alcove. While I did my best to try to find the name of these waterfalls in Zion National Park, the best I could find was "Lower Emerald Pools".

If you're like me and amazed by the beautiful surroundings and want to continue, I highly recommend walking underneath the waterfalls and continuing on to the Middle, or Upper Pools trails.

Optional: Extended Route to the Middle Pools

Rather than doubling back, it's possible to continue on to the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools in Zion. Unfortunately, the Upper Pools trail was closed due to rockfall when I visited, so I instead chose to form a loop back to the parking area via the Middle Pools.

This extended route is very scenic but involves a little more incline to the ledge beside the Middle Pools. In total, the Lower and Middle Emerald Pool loop is only 2 miles, with only about 150ft of elevation. We completed this entire loop hike in winter in roughly 1.5 hours with plenty of photo stops.

The trail begins by walking underneath the alcove waterfalls and then climbing a short but steep section to a trail that now parallels the Lower Emerald Pools trail. This finishes by looping back around at higher elevation with spectacular views over the Historic Zion Lodge, and Red Arch Mountain before a sharp descent back to the parking area.

Map & Hike Details: My Strava

Lower Emerald Pools trail Zion Faqs

More Southwest USA Hiking Guides

I hope you've enjoyed this quick but useful hiking guide to the Lower Emerald Pools trail in Zion National Park, Utah.

While you're here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other articles. I've got great travel, road-trip and hiking resources that will help you on your own adventures in the great Southwest USA!

• 10 Best Grand Canyon Views - Don't Miss These South Rim Viewpoints
• Best Road Trip Vans: How to Pick Camper Van Rentals in the USA

The post Lower Emerald Pool Trail – Awesome Pools & Waterfall in Zion National Park appeared first on We Seek Travel.

If you’re visiting Houston, TX, and you’re a fan of everything science and space exploration, you’ll want to visit the NASA Space Center. This attraction was the biggest draw for me but unfortunately, getting to NASA in Houston and organizing tickets was a little tricky, at least at first.

To help you out, and to make your experience more enjoyable, I’ve written this quick guide with useful and up-to-date information on how to get to there, how to get NASA Space Center ticket at a discounted price online, and give you some tips to help you enjoy your visit.

How to Get Cheap Nasa Houston Tickets

If you visit the official NASA Space Center website, you'll find that it takes you to their official booking checkout for tickets. However, this is NOT what you want to do.

That's because if you book directly on the NASA website, you'll be paying $30 for a ticket. Instead, you can book discounted NASA Space Center tickets online using Viator (Tripadvisor company) for only $24.99.

Skip the line & buy discounted tickets in advance: NASA General Admission Tickets

It seems that Viator has a promotional deal where they are able to sell cheaper tickets to Nasa Houston. These tickets are for General Admission only, which is the same as if you bought your tickets on the NASA website, only $5 cheaper. Keep in mind that this means you'll need to arrange your own transport (more on how to get to NASA in Houston below).

Since the start of the pandemic, NASA have changed admissions to timed events. As a result, visitors are required to pick a time when booking. I recommend picking the earliest possible admission, which is 10:00 AM. This gives you the most time and flexibility, as tickets are valid for an entire day, regardless of the time you book.

Where is NASA in Houston?

NASA in Houston hours: 10 AM to 5 PM Monday - Sunday

NASA in Houston, refers to the public admission/museum named NASA Johnson Space Center. This is a Smithsonian Affiliate museum and educational center highlighting all eras of U.S. space travel and includes interesting exhibits, tours, and attractions like the Rocket Park and the retired SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

The NASA Space Center is located in the southeast region of Houston near Nassau Bay. What surprised me at first is just how far away NASA is from Houston Downtown. You can expect a roughly 30-40 minute drive from downtown to get here!

Below I've pinned the exact location of the NASA Space Center in Houston TX so you know where you're heading.

How to Get to NASA Space Center in Houston TX

To get to the NASA Space Center in Houston, visitors have four main options. This includes driving there yourself, getting a taxi or ride-share, taking the public transport bus, or booking an organized, guided tour from Houston.

Below I'll give you a rundown of each option to help you pick the best one for you.

Option 1: Self-Drive Directions to the NASA Space Center From Houston TX

If you've got your own car, you can easily drive to NASA from Houston downtown in roughly 30-40 minutes. What you'll want to do is get onto the Gulf Freeway, I-45 between downtown Houston and Galveston.

Once you arrive at the pin above, you'll find a large parking lot where you'll need to pay $5 to park your vehicle for the day.

If you don't have your own car, then you might find that renting one for the day works out cheaper than booking a lyft/Uber or taxi. This is especially true if you use Discover Cars, which has a huge network of available cars to rent in Houston.

Option 3: Taxi or Ride Share

The most expensive option would be to get a Taxi or ride-share service from Houston to the NASA Space Center.

Currently, Lyft is the cheapest ride-share service in Houston and trips from downtown to NASA cost between $27-$35 each way.

If you're taking a taxi instead, expect to pay around $50 each way.

Option 4: Public Bus from Houston Downtown to NASA

When I was researching options for visiting NASA in Houston, there wasn't a lot of information about public transport. However, I was able to find out that in fact, there is a bus running from downtown to nearby El Dorado Pr, which is quite close to the Space Center.

The bus route is called the line 249 bus. to El Dorado Pr then take a taxi to Space Center Houston. You can use the Metro App to compare schedules or check on Moovit. I believe a fare is only $3.50 per person.

However, keep in mind that this service only runs Monday to Friday and is unavailable on weekends.

Best Things to See at the NASA Space Center In Houston TX

Now that we have tickets and transport out of the way, let's jump into some of the things you'll definitely not want to miss on your visit!

Remember, this is one of the best day-trip activities in Houston! You'll have a blast, especially if you're a bit of a space geek like me.

SPACEX FALCON 9 ROCKET EXHIBIT

The retired SpaceX Falcon 9 is probably going to be the first thing you see when you arrive at the NASA Johnson Space Center. This rocket is arguably one of the most important scientific innovations in space travel and exploration during the past two centuries.

This particular rocket is the first orbital class rocket capable of reflight, and has transported both humans and cargo to the ISS (International Space Station).

Starship Gallery

For space history geeks, the Starship Gallery at the Houston Space Center is going to blow you away! This gallery is home to several actual, flown spacecraft and national treasure replicas. This is going to give you an amazing run-down on the progess of human space travel and exploration.

One of the artifact highlights in this particular gallery is the actual Apollo 17 Lunar Module (LM) "Challenger", which was the final mission to the moon under the Apollo mission in 1972.

Tip: There's even a moon-rock specimen taken from the Apollo 17 mission that you can touch with your own hands.

Independence Plaza

Independence Plaza is located directly outside the entrance and houses the historic and original NASA 905 shuttle carrier aircraft. This was a transformed Boeing 747 airplane, which was altered to mount a SCA space shuttle (Independence).

You are free to explore both the NASA 905 shuttle carrier and the replica SCA Independence on multiple floors.

Mission Mars

The Mission Mars exhibit at the NASA Space Center in Houston TX is a gallery dedicated to the future of human exploration and colonization of the red planet. Here, you'll discover all the latest innovations and planned missions for Mars, including rovers like the latest Perseverance and planned manned missions in the Orion space shuttle.

International Space Station Gallery (ISS Gallery)

The International Space Station Gallery is an exhibit dedicated to the largest structure ever built in space.

The ISS provides an interesting look at the history of the space station, as well as information about its history and what it's like living in earth orbit.

Astronaut Gallery

The Astronaut Gallery is also a must-see exhibit at the NASA Space Center in Houston TX. Here, you'll get to see the evolution of astronaut life, from spacesuits to food, to training and simulations necessary to equip NASA astronauts with the skills required to explore the moon and live at the ISS.

New Perspectives Presentation

Just near the ISS exhibit, you'll find a timed presentation entitled New Perspectives. This is a 20-minute, live presentation by official NASA Mission Briefing Officers.

It's designed to give you an insight into what the lives of astronauts are like onboard the ISS. It also allows you to ask questions and learn about the ins and outs of life in space, from eating to working out, to showering, to growing food in space.

Houston Space Center Theatre Film

When you arrive, head over to the information desk to find up-to-date timings for the Space Centre Theatre Film. This five-story-tall cinema is the largest 4K theatre in Texas where you can enjoy great films on space exploration and science. This is included in your General Admission ticket.

NASA Tram Tour

The NASA Tram Tour is one of the best offerings at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston TX. However, you'll need to book this in advance. I suggest doing this as soon as you arrive via the app or at the information counter.

The tram tours are one of the biggest draws to NASA in Houston as it allows visitors to explore the site and learn more about NASA operations. The three main tours include:

George W.S Abbey Rocket Park Tour
An amazing stop where one of only three remaining Saturn V rockets are displayed.

Astronaut Training Facility Tour
This stop lets you walk the uphill path through the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility in Building 9. This is where NASA astronauts train for missions to space and where enginers are able to develop the latest and greatest space vehicles.

Mission Control Center Tour
Perhaps the most famous and the most anticipated tour is to the Mission Control Center (Christopher C. Kraft Mission Control). This is where NASA led mission control for Gemini and Apollo missions, including the first lunar landing mission.

Important: While the NASA tram tour is free and included in your ticket, you'll still need to make a reservation as it fills up. Unfortunately, we missed out on this amazing experience during our first visit because we didn't book in time and all slots were sold out by 2 PM!

Must-Know Tips & Visitor's Information

Here are some more must-know tips and useful insights that will make your visit to the Houston Space Center more enjoyable.

• Book a Space Center Train tour as soon as you arrive - it's free, but slots fill out very quickly!
• Buy a ticket on Viator to save $5
• Food is quite expensive at The Food Lab - this is the onsite restaurant attached to the museum.
• Purchase merchandise at the SpaceTrader Gift Shop
• There is Wifi throughout the entire Space Center
• Don't bring any large luggage - there are no storage lockers
• Don't bring - Large professional cameras, tripods and lighting equipment is not allowed. I was told this before I arrived but I noticed there were a few guys walking around with DSLR's and mirrorless setups. I took all the photos with my phone instead.
• There are toilets, restrooms, and phone-charging banks available at the Space Center in Houston
• You'll get a photo taken when you enter - you can pay for these when you leave. There are also photo booths near the exit.
• There's a free Space Center app that you can download - this includes an audio guide, so bring earphones!
• The daily schedule, including theatre showings and presentations change frequently.

More Resources for Visiting NASA in Houston

I hope that this quick and useful guide for how to get to the NASA Space Center in Houston TX has been useful for planning your visit. If you find cheaper NASA Space Center tickets, or you discovered something I might have missed, please let me know in the comments below.

Otherwise, I've included a few useful resources below, including a map of the Space Center in Houston. While you can pick up a map and a small guide when you arrive, this section is for those of you that like to be prepared.

History: NASA
History: The Apollo Program
Mars: Past, Present, & Future Missions

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