Hi Mike,

What a great trip you are planning there, and congratulations on your forthcoming wedding.

If it were ME I would definitely take that first leg a little slower.

Another day at the GC won't go astray, there is just so much to see. I think you will be arriving too late for the IMAX, but if you possibly can, go see the IMAX show of the GC. It adds so much to the experience of appreciating what you are looking at. Pictures just do not do that place justice. You have to see it, feel it to really appreciate this greatest of wonders of the natural world.

You're not leaving yourself much time to actually check out the many wonders along the way. In reality, the drive will take longer than you think, there are so many photo opportunities along the way... especially in Monument Valley.

Not only the GC, but also Bryce deserves more time than you are allowing, although, having said that, I am not familiar with it in winter. And don't overlook Zion, on your way to LV. That deserves a day as well.

Don't delude yourself, my first time out of LA took from before midday to somewhere around 4pm. It seemed to go forever... never ending! It is nothing like Canberra - not the road system... not the traffic! And if you have not done it before, it takes a little extra concentration driving on the wrong side of the road.

Remember those times which are quoted in the mapping programs do not make allowance for newcomers to the environment who have just come off a 17 hour flight.

Two other thoughts, check out to see how many national parks you will be visiting... it may pay you to get the National Parks Pass which is amazing value.

The other is, if you are a member of NRMA, take your membership with you. There is a reciprical arrangement between the AAA and the Australian automobile clubs, giving you access to free tourist information and maps. The office in LA I have found particularly helpful.

Lifey's tuppence worth