The Closest Airports to the Grand Canyon and How to Get Here
Planning a visit to the Grand Canyon but not sure which airport is closest? You’re not alone. The canyon’s remoteness is part of its magic, but it does take a little extra planning to get here.
Whether you're flying in from across the country or road-tripping from a nearby city, this guide covers your best options, including the airport closest to Grand Canyon National Park and tips for navigating from the Grand Canyon closest airport to Highland, just 15 minutes from the South Rim.
Closest Airports to the Grand Canyon
Here are the top airport options (ranked by proximity) for reaching Highland:
1. Grand Canyon National Park Airport (GCN)
Location: Tusayan, AZ
Drive to Highland: ~20 minutes
What to know:
Closest airport to Grand Canyon South Rim
Very limited commercial service (seasonal tour flights only)
Often used for scenic air tours, no major airline arrivals
A great option if you have your own plane or plan to charter one
2. Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG)
Location: Flagstaff, AZ
Drive to Highland: ~1 hour 30 minutes
What to know:
The second closest airport to Grand Canyon and the most convenient realistic airport for most travelers
Served by American Airlines with connections through Phoenix and Dallas
Rental cars available
3. Prescott Regional Airport (PRC)
Location: Prescott, AZ
Drive to Highland: ~2 hours 20 minutes
What to know:
Offers direct commercial flights from Los Angeles and Denver via United
Small and easy to navigate
A great regional alternative
Rental Cars Available
4. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Drive to Highland: ~4 hours
What to know:
Major international airport with lots of nonstop flights
Best for affordable fares and rental car availability
Scenic, mostly highway drive north to the canyon
Easy access to Sedona
5. Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Drive to Highland: ~4 hours
What to know:
Popular choice if you’re combining a Grand Canyon trip with Las Vegas or Hoover Dam
Access to Route 66 and great road trip stops
Plenty of flights and car rental options
How to Get to Highland Grand Canyon
Once you’ve landed, the easiest way to reach Highland is by car. We’re:
Located just 4 miles from the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park
About 15 minutes from the rim itself
Tucked off a quiet, well-maintained gravel road in Kaibab National Forest
Important: Google Maps works, but cell service gets spotty near the park. We’ll send you detailed directions and your gate code ahead of time so you’re never stuck.
What You’ll Need for the Drive
A full tank of gas (few stations after Flagstaff or Prescott)
Your Highland confirmation email with gate code and offline directions
Snacks, water, and your road trip playlist
Bonus: a camera, because this drive is beautiful
Make the Journey Part of the Adventure
Getting to the Grand Canyon is part of what makes it special. Once you arrive, Highland Grand Canyon is your reward: peaceful, off-grid, and just 15 minutes from the views you came for.
Book your stay or send us a message if you need help choosing the best airport for your route—we're happy to help plan your arrival.
