Four-Day Budget-Friendly Road Trip: Los Angeles to Grand Canyon to Castle Rock

Day 1: Travel to Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon, AZ

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Start your day with hearty pancakes at this popular cafe known for their delicious brunch.
Drive to the I-40 East, taking it for approximately 7 hours, enjoying scenic stops like Route 66.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Drive to Grand Canyon

Hit the road for the stunning drive towards the Grand Canyon while keeping an eye out for local wildlife.
Continue on I-40, then take AZ-64 North to reach the Grand Canyon.
USD 0, 7 hours

5:00PM

Set Up Camp at Mather Campground

Arrive and set your home for the next two nights in a dog-friendly campsite among pine trees.
Follow campground signs from the South Entrance.
USD 18, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Campfire

Enjoy a budget-friendly campfire meal with hot dogs and roasted veggies before stargazing in this breathtaking environment.
Cook on campfire grill.
USD 10, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Explore the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon, AZ

7:00AM

Breakfast at Camp

Fuel up with a simple breakfast of oatmeal and fresh fruits while enjoying the morning serenity.
Prepare at your site.
USD 5, 1 hour

8:30AM

Morning Hike on Bright Angel Trail

Embark on a moderate hike down the famous Bright Angel Trail, soaking in stunning vistas and the canyon's grandeur.
Access from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center.
USD 0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch Picnic at the Rim

Have a packed lunch at one of the overlooks, enjoying insights into the majestic canyon below.
Bring lunch from the campsite.
USD 7, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center

Learn about the canyon's geology and history through interactive exhibits and ranger programs.
Walk from the rim to the Visitor Center.
USD 0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Desert View Drive

Take a scenic drive along Desert View Drive, stopping at various viewpoints to capture breathtaking photos.
Follow the road signs along the canyon's rim.
USD 0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Camp

Cook a delicious veggie stir-fry in your outdoor kitchen, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prepare at your site.
USD 10, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Continue Exploring the Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon, AZ

7:30AM

Breakfast at Camp

Indulge in a breakfast of scrambled eggs and toast while enjoying canyon sounds.
Prepare at your site.
USD 5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Morning Horseback Ride

Experience the canyon's beauty from a different angle on a guided horseback ride.
Book in advance, meet the guide in the park.
USD 60, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at El Tovar Dining Room

Enjoy a budget nutritious lunch at this historic hotel, where the views match the delicious food.
Drive or take the shuttle from the South Rim.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Wildlife Watching at the Rim

Take your time at various established viewpoints to spot condors and mule deer throughout the park.
Walk between viewpoints.
USD 0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relaxation Time at Camp

Unwind at your campsite, meditate, or play with your dog in the calming natural surroundings.
At your campsite.
USD 0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Final Dinner at Camp

Savor a camp-cooked meal of chili and cornbread, sharing favorite memories of the canyon.
Prepare at your site.
USD 10, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Travel to Castle Rock

Castle Rock, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at Camp

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast of granola and yogurt while packing up your campsite.
Prepare at your site.
USD 5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Castle Rock

Pack your bags and hit the road heading northeast toward Castle Rock, anticipating the next adventure.
Follow AZ-64 to I-25 towards Colorado.
USD 0, 8 hours

5:00PM

Arrival in Castle Rock

Settle in at a lovely dog-friendly Airbnb or campground to recharge after your journey.
Check in at the pre-booked accommodation.
USD 50, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at a Local Diner

Indulge in local flavors at a nearby diner, known for its home-style meals perfect for all budgets.
Short drive from accommodation.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Evening Stroll in Downtown

End your day with a lovely walk downtown, experiencing Colorado’s small-town charm.
Walk from your accommodation.
USD 0, 1 hour
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