How to Drive Through Arizona National Parks Without Getting Lost

Arizona’s national parks are epic — but also remote and occasionally confusing. Here’s how to drive through without getting lost.

1. Know the Main Parks

Top sites:
- Grand Canyon (South + North Rim)
- Petrified Forest
- Saguaro (East + West units)
- Organ Pipe Cactus (National Monument but park-worthy)

Each has different road layouts and challenges.

2. Download Offline Maps

Before entering:
- Use Google Maps → Offline Maps
- Download the NPS App and save maps
- Pick up a paper map at the entrance

Cell signal is unreliable in most parks.

3. Fill Up Beforehand

Nearest fuel stops:
- Tusayan (Grand Canyon South)
- Holbrook (Petrified Forest)
- Tucson (Saguaro)
- Ajo (Organ Pipe)

Parks often have no gas stations inside.

4. Understand Road Access

Some roads:
- Are closed in winter
- Are shuttle-only in high season (e.g., Hermit Road at Grand Canyon)
- Require high clearance or 4WD

Ask rangers for road status.

5. Scenic Drives to Try

Best routes:
- Desert View Drive (Grand Canyon)
- Saguaro East Loop Drive
- Park Road (Petrified Forest)
- Ajo Mountain Drive (Organ Pipe, unpaved)

Plan stops — some get crowded or close at sunset.

6. Visitor Centers = Critical Stops

They provide:
- Road alerts
- Weather updates
- Trailhead parking info
- Better maps than Google

Don’t skip them.

7. Don’t Confuse the Rims

Grand Canyon South = busy, open year-round
North = remote, closed mid-Oct to May

You cannot drive rim-to-rim directly — it’s 4.5 hours around.

8. GPS Isn’t Always Right

GPS may:
- Route to closed gates
- Suggest tribal or private roads
- Lead onto impassable backroads

Stick to NPS signs and printed maps.

9. Know Paved vs. Unpaved

Unpaved roads (like Ajo Drive or Cape Royal) may be closed after rain.

Check with rangers and avoid if in a rental car unless permitted.

10. Final Tip

Plan ahead, fuel up, bring water and maps, and respect closures. These parks are remote — your prep matters as much as your camera.