Grand Canyon & Route 66

The Grand Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of those places that appear far less impressive in photographs than in reality. The size is simply incredible and unlike anything else. We approach the Visitor Center via the Desert View Drive from the east. The road runs along the canyon, offering spectacular viewpoints like the Desert View Watchtower, and is far less congested than the road towards the South Entrance, where, unlike the East Entrance, one must expect waiting times of 1-2 hours during the peak season.

As is often the case with highly sought-after attractions, it is worth planning precisely what you want to see. This is especially true for the Grand Canyon, as the visitor area with its buildings and parking lots is very large, and there are numerous viewpoints and hiking trails along the roads that see varying levels of foot traffic.

Before reaching the Visitor Center, we stop at Grandview Point to enjoy the view and walk partway down the carved Grandview Trail into the canyon. The path leads us past eroded rock formations accompanied by a broad view of the Grand Canyon. To conserve energy for the steep return journey, we turn around soon and head back to the starting point. Afterward, we continue to the Yavapai Geology Museum at Yavapai Point. The museum provides informative insights into the canyon's formation alongside the beautiful views.

Our journey continues through Williams to Seligman, the self-proclaimed birthplace of the legendary Route 66, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary next year. In Williams, we first dine at a diner while accompanied by Falco’s “Der Kommissar” - this background music was the least expected.