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Denver to grand canyon n back

Hi. Flying into Denver. Drive to Moab in two days. Then to GC for three days. Have three days to spare before heading back to Denver

Should I different route back to Denver or go back the same way (through Moab) again? I know it's a lot of driving but that is the beauty of it.

Driving from Denver to Moab and then to the Grand Canyon is already a scenic and adventurous route. With three days to spare on the way back, you have a great opportunity to explore different landscapes and towns rather than retracing your route through Moab, unless you have a strong desire to revisit certain spots.

Here are some options to consider for your return journey:

  • Via Monument Valley and Page, AZ: Instead of going back through Moab, drive south from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim toward Page, AZ. This allows you to visit Horseshoe Bend and Lake Powell, and then continue northeast through Monument Valley before heading back into Colorado. This route is very scenic with iconic desert landscapes.
  • Through Flagstaff and Sedona: You could head south from the Grand Canyon to Flagstaff, then loop through Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon before re-entering northern Arizona or New Mexico. This gives you more time to enjoy the red rock scenery and charming towns.
  • Direct route back to Denver: If you prefer shorter driving days and fewer stops, you can retrace your route through Moab and eastern Utah. This is more efficient, but less varied.

If you want to maximize sightseeing and experience a variety of landscapes, taking a different route back is recommended. This could include:

  • Page and Lake Powell area for water-based views and photo opportunities
  • Monument Valley for iconic desert vistas
  • Exploring parts of northern New Mexico (like Farmington or Santa Fe) if you want a cultural stop

Ultimately, the choice depends on whether you prefer driving more to see new scenery or having shorter travel days. A different route back will give you a more varied experience and showcase the diversity of the Southwest’s landscapes, while returning through Moab will be faster and familiar.

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