My BF and I are planning to drive to Phoenix AZ and back to Long Island NY with 2 small dogs. We have approximately 21 days. We're planning to stay in Page AZ for 2 days.Phoenix for 5 and the Great Smoky Mountain area for 2. I would love to see the North Rim of the Grand Canyon but heard it is closed till May. Is it closed regardless of weather conditions? Would seeing the Louisiana plantation area and the bluegrass area of Kentucky be possible in the time frame? What would be the best stopover for the Great Smokies? Any suggestions for the best routes to take would be greatly appreciated.