Williams Arizona FAQs

From the Williams and Forest Service Visitor Center go one block south on Route 66, turn left (east) on Route 66 for two miles, go under Highway 40 and go north on Route 64 to the Grand Canyon, a total of 62 miles.

Also, be sure to read our article on How Far is the Grand Canyon from Williams for complete directions from Williams and other nearby areas. In addition, find recommendations for things to do in the region.

From the Williams and Forest Service Visitor Center go north (left) on Grand Canyon Boulevard across the railroad tracks, turn left at the sign for the Grand Canyon Railway. The depot is located adjacent to the railroad tracks, behind the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel.

For an in-depth look at all the Grand Canyon Railway has to offer, please read our Insider’s Guide to Grand Canyon Railway on our Blog.

See one of the seven natural wonders of the world! Based on the time of the year you can:

• Take a shuttle bus to Hermits Rest, where on the way you can stop at eight lookout points of the Grand Canyon
• Go to one or more of the Ranger Programs at the Grand Canyon
• See sunrise and sunset from designated favorite lookout points
• Hike the canyon

• Historic Walking Tour of the town of Williams
• View our list of 66 Things to Do on Route 66 in Williams
• Four lakes for fishing or picnicking
• Hiking on Forest Service trails
• Golfing at Elephant Rocks Golf Course
• Skiing at Elk Ridge Ski area in the winter and tubing all year round
• Cross country skiing in the winter
• Restaurants and shopping within the town of Williams

Yes! For those wishing to connect with nature, the area offers some fantastic campsites with full facilities so you can camp and enjoy your trip in this unique town. Please read our extensive guide on Camping in Williams Arizona: Campsites & Lakes Nearby

There are four lakes in the Kaibab National Forest in the Williams area:

• Kaibab Lake
• Cataract Lake
• Dogtown Lake
• White Horse Lake

We also have dispersed camping available in the Kaibab National Forest  and private campgrounds within Williams are also available. Already in town? Be sure to stop by the Williams Visitor Center for more information. View our list of sure-fire adventure vacation ideas in our Outdoor Adventures in Williams guide.

Yes! For RV travelers seeking RV Park camping facilities (and tent sites), there are a number of full-service (full hookup) RV parks in Williams with a number of other facilities (laundry room, hot tubs) – with space available for big rigs.

Please read our extensive guide RV Parks in Williams Arizona: Where to Hook Up on our Blog.

We have a two-mile loop of Route 66 in the town of Williams that visitors can drive and explore. Start your trip on Route 66 at the Williams Visitor Center and “get your kicks on Route 66” in Williams.

Check out our list of 66 Things to Do on Route 66 in Williams.

Yes, you can buy various types of passes at the Williams and Forest Service Visitor Center.

•  1-7 Day pass for a carload – $35.00* (US Dollars)
• Yearly pass for all National Parks – $80.00* (US Dollars)
• Senior Pass – $10.00* ( for American citizens, 62 years and older)

*Please visit the National Park Service website for more pass options and the latest pricing.

Yes, we have four lakes in the Kaibab National Forest in the Williams area:

• Kaibab Lake
• Cataract Lake
• Dogtown Lake
• White Horse Lake

We also have fishing at Santa Fe Dam. Be sure to stop by the Williams Visitor Center for more information.

Yes, you need a fishing license to fish in the Kaibab National Forest area. Children, fourteen and over are required to have a fishing license. You can obtain a fishing license currently at the Outdoor Store in Williams.

Are you ready to hit the slopes or want to play in the snow?  Then Williams has several options for our snow-loving guests:

• Elk Ridge Ski Area is available for downhill skiing and tubing
• Cross country skiing can be done at Sevier Flat, Barney Flat and Spring Valley Cross Country Trail
• Oak Hill Snow Play area – free sledding (soft sleds or inner tubes only)
• Enjoy snow tubing at Canyon Coaster Adventure Park

We also have fishing at Santa Fe Dam. Be sure to stop by the Williams Visitor Center for more information.

Yes, we have several areas where new homes are available: Highland Meadows, Highland Meadows North, Escalante and various areas within the Williams city limits. (See local realtors for additional information)

The altitude is 6,780 feet at the Williams and Forest Service Visitor Center. For more information about Williams, Arizona be sure to stop by the Williams and Forest Service Visitor Center.

Williams, Arizona may be known for Route 66 and the Gateway to the Grand Canyon, but where did its name come from? Founded in 1882, Williams was named for Bill Williams Mountain, the volcanic peak that rises above it. Read the full story of how Williams Got its Name here.