Have a great trip jjj.
I have done it. I know what you are in for.
I know that you have been studying geology. So give some time to having a look through the Petrified Forest. Its only desert with a lot of petrified logs laying around, but there are stops with tourist info available.
Some years ago it was $20 per person to enter. The drive through is about 20miles (30Klm) from memory.
The system is an ancient river delta. Enjoy.
Cheers