Start and finish point...Las Vegas

Flying over Canyon Lands approaching Las Vegas
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So our journey commenced in Vegas...there are a couple of 'fly-in' points to start the grand circle tour (Vegas, Flagstaff). As the name suggests, its a circle...and so befitting that we begin and end where we began! Vegas had the best and most economical flight options coupled with great rental car rates as well. Plus the ulterior motive was to end our trip in colorful, lively and ever-transforming mecca of lights - Las Vegas. And by the way...the views from the sky while approaching Vegas, were nothing shy of spectacular. And we couldn't wait to be on the ground...and on the road.

Lake Mead, Nevada from the skies
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There was a lot to be explored, experienced and encountered over the next 9 days, and we wasted no time in Vegas upon arrival. (well - we did try our dollar at the slot machines in the airport...but that doesn't count, does it??) Moreover, there would be plenty of time towards the end of our trip to unearth happening Vegas.We headed straight for the rental car agency, and were on our way due east towards the mother of all national parks - Grand Canyon nearly 280 miles away.

As the name suggests, its a circle...and so befitting that we begin and end where we began!

No points for guessing...the infamous strip by day
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Couple of pointers, both the north as well as south rims of the Grand Canyon are about the same distance from Vegas...however depending on the season, one might prove to be a better bet than the other. Considering that we chose to travel in November...we picked the South rim over the North for more than one reason -

1. Seasonal road closures prevent access to the North Rim in Winter
2. Since we were traveling off-season, the crowds would be less to allow for a more peaceful and less hurried experience from the South.
3. And lastly, we chose to navigate counter-clockwise on our Circle...which meant opting for one versus the other. There was a lot more fun destinations included in our agenda...which just made sense to travel to from the South. So there you go...

TIP: By road, Vegas to the South Entrance of the Grand Canyon, is about 5 hours..so a good idea would be to arrive early into Vegas...and get to the Grand Canyon well before sunset...afterall this is Sunset country and you don't want to miss it for the world!