Laughlin to the Grand Canyon.
After 2 weeks Las Vegas and Laughlin enjoying live entertainment, pool parties, nightclubs, and great shows it was time to settle back to overlander life.
Our first stop was Needles, located on the scenic Colorado River in California, but just across the bridge where we cross into Arizona. Famous Route 66 runs through the centre of Needles. Needles gets its name from the sharp pointy peaks of the pinnacles in the Mohave Mountains to the south of the town.
From Needles we followed the old Route 66 north to Oatman, a quirky small town along a preserved section of Route 66 capturing a vibrant slice of Americana.
It was once a booming mining area that is now a ghost town and popular tourist attraction. We walked the streets and stopped for a drink at the old saloon but be warned many tourists here travel in groups or join a tour from Las Vegas which means it can be very busy. Stay in the bush just before Oatman and arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Next stop was Kingman, an authentic small-town packed with history. Surrounded by the Mojave Desert the city has always been a key part of the railroads, a stopping point for all west and eastbound steam-powered trains to fill with water. Kingman, part of Route 66 is known for its frequent classic car events, glowing neon signs, and an overall retro vibe that embraces the city’s vibrant past.
From here we decided against the drive to the Skywalk for various reasons: very busy and full of tourists, the cost approx.72USD, and not allowed to take pictures or video. We will bush camp near the Canyon and have the same scenery.
Instead, we continued to Seligman that preserves the Americana of yesteryear. Founded in 1886 as a railroad town, Seligman’s true claim to fame came with the arrival of Route 66 in 1926.
It has lots of vintage cars, vibrant murals, and quirky roadside attractions. Seligman retains its nostalgic charm with pride and is bursting with fun Route 66 sites.
We continued Route 66 till Williams where we started our Route 66 a few months ago. But this time we turned north for our 4th visit to the Grand Canyon in the last 30 years.
1 kilometer before the entrance to Grand Canyon National Park we turned on to a dirt track looking for a camp spot to avoid the ridiculous camp fees being charged in the USA. The National Park camp sites all show Fully Booked. (Americans book 6 months ahead of time)
We found a great spot right on the border of Grand Canyon National Park and this became a great camp site for 3 nights without the noise of RV and Caravans running generators all day/night.
