If you want to experience the best of the American Southwest, few journeys compare to this Los Angeles to Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Zion 4-Day Tour.
This route showcases three of the region’s most breathtaking landscapes—each one a masterpiece of geology, history, and adventure.
From the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon to the glowing curves of Antelope Canyon and the towering cliffs of Zion National Park, this itinerary captures the true essence of the Southwest. Whether you drive yourself or join a guided MaxTour small-group experience, this is the road trip every traveler dreams about.
Quick Overview
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Total Distance: ~1,200 miles (1,930 km)
Best Seasons: Spring (Mar–May) & Fall (Sep–Oct)
Main Stops: Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Zion National Park, Las Vegas
Best Tour Option: MaxTour’s 3- and 4-day small-group Southwest itineraries
Ideal For: Travelers who want to see multiple national parks without feeling rushed
Why This 4-Day Itinerary Is Special
This route connects five iconic destinations—the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Zion National Park, and Hoover Dam—into one efficient and awe-inspiring loop.
It’s designed for travelers who want to balance adventure, comfort, and photography, without spending every hour behind the wheel.
Day 1: Los Angeles → Grand Canyon (South or West Rim)
Drive Time: ~8 hours (500 miles)
Your journey begins with a drive northeast through the Mojave Desert, past Las Vegas, and onward to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—the Grand Canyon.
Highlights
- Route 66 stops: Capture Americana charm in Kingman or Seligman.
- Grand Canyon South Rim: Visit Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View Watchtower for world-class views.
- West Rim option: Experience the Skywalk, a glass bridge 70 feet above the canyon’s edge.
Overnight: Near the Grand Canyon or in Page, Arizona (depending on pace).
Day 2: Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend
Drive Time: ~3–4 hours (190 miles from Grand Canyon to Page, AZ)**
Wake up early for a drive to Page, Arizona, the gateway to Navajo Nation and home to two of the Southwest’s most iconic natural wonders.
Morning: Antelope Canyon
Join a Navajo-guided tour through Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, where shafts of sunlight illuminate the swirling sandstone.
This is one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world.
Afternoon: Horseshoe Bend
Just 10 minutes away, the Horseshoe Bend overlook offers a jaw-dropping view of the Colorado River winding around 1,000-foot cliffs.
Evening: Relax in Page or continue toward Kanab or Zion for an early start the next day.
Overnight: Page or Kanab, Utah.
Day 3: Explore Zion National Park
Drive Time: ~2 hours (85 miles from Page to Zion National Park)**
Zion is a natural cathedral of sandstone walls, emerald valleys, and glistening rivers—one of the most beautiful national parks in America.
Top Things to Do
- The Narrows: Walk through the Virgin River between soaring canyon walls.
- Angels Landing: A thrilling, bucket-list hike (permit required).
- Canyon Overlook Trail: Short, scenic, and perfect for photography.
- Checkerboard Mesa: A striking striped rock formation near the east entrance.
Pro Tip: Arrive early for the best light and cooler hiking conditions.
Overnight: Springdale, Utah—a lively town right at Zion’s entrance.
Day 4: Return to Los Angeles via Las Vegas
Drive Time: ~7 hours (430 miles)**
After breakfast, take a final look at Zion’s red cliffs before heading west toward Los Angeles.
Suggested Stops En Route
- Las Vegas: Stop for lunch or a quick stroll on the Strip.
- Seven Magic Mountains (Jean, NV): Vibrant desert art installation.
- Peggy Sue’s 50s Diner (Yermo, CA): Retro Americana lunch spot.
- Calico Ghost Town: A historic silver mining town turned attraction.
Why Choose MaxTour for the Ultimate 4-Day Southwest Adventure
Planning a 1,200-mile, multi-park road trip can be daunting—especially with permits, timing, and hotels to manage.
That’s where MaxTour excels, turning logistics into luxury.
1. Small Groups, Big Comfort
MaxTour limits groups to 14 guests or fewer, traveling in luxury vans for a personal and relaxed experience.
2. Expert Local Guides
Learn geology, history, and culture from passionate guides who know the hidden photo spots and storytelling behind every canyon.
3. Multi-Park Coverage
Visit Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Zion, and Hoover Dam—all in one itinerary.
4. All-Inclusive Convenience
- Park entry fees & permits included
- 3–4 star hotels arranged in advance
- Complimentary bottled water & snacks
- Hotel pickup/drop-off in Las Vegas
- Photo assistance at every stop
5. Award-Winning Service
MaxTour boasts a 5.0 Google rating, multiple TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards (2020–2025), and over 100,000 happy travelers.
6. Efficiency Without the Rush
Unlike large bus tours, MaxTour offers longer stops, flexible pacing, and scenic detours—so you enjoy each park without feeling hurried.
Best Time to Take the 4-Day Southwest Tour
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Perfect temperatures, wildflowers, clear skies | Slightly busier parks |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Long daylight hours, full access | Hotter temps, more crowds |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | Golden light, cooler weather, fewer tourists | Cool evenings |
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Peaceful, low crowds | Possible snow at higher elevations |
Best Overall Months: April–May and September–October
What to Pack for a Southwest Road Trip
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Refillable water bottle
- Light jacket or fleece
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Portable charger or power bank
- Camera or smartphone with wide-angle lens
Pro Tip: Desert climates swing 30°F between day and night—always pack layers.
FAQs
Q: Can you really visit the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Zion in 4 days?
A: Yes! With smart planning—or a guided MaxTour itinerary—it’s perfectly manageable and rewarding.
Q: How far is the total drive from Los Angeles?
A: Around 1,200 miles round trip, depending on detours.
Q: Are any special permits required?
A: Only Angels Landing in Zion requires a hiking permit. Antelope Canyon is by guided tour only (included with MaxTour).
Q: Which Grand Canyon rim should I visit?
A: The South Rim offers the most iconic views, while the West Rim (with the Skywalk) is closer to Las Vegas.
Q: Is this tour family-friendly?
A: Absolutely—easy trails, scenic stops, and comfortable vans make it great for families and first-time travelers.
Final Thoughts
The Los Angeles to Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, and Zion 4-Day Tour is the ultimate Southwest experience—a journey through time, color, and wonder.
From sunrise over the Grand Canyon to sunset in Zion Canyon, this route delivers every highlight of the American Southwest in one unforgettable trip.
For travelers who prefer comfort and expertise, MaxTour’s small-group adventures offer a seamless, scenic, and storytelling-driven experience you’ll remember forever.