The Grand Canyon in Arizona needs no introduction. Carved out by the Colorado river for more than five-million years, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and noted as one of the top wonders of the world. Travelers stream in to visit the red-hued canyon, taking day trips from Sedona, Flagstaff, Phoenix, Las Vegas, and beyond. For a different point of entry, book a seat on the Grand Canyon Railway out of Williams, and ride to the canyon and back on a seldom-used mode of transport. On a guided Jeep tour, you’ll get information about the area’s history, geology, and plants; while a bus tour includes narration and optional extras such as an IMAX movie. For views, it’s hard to beat a helicopter or airplane tour of the Grand Canyon. Be warned: When it comes to visiting the canyon, you’ll often have to pick a side. The South Rim is the most popular, and offers hiking opportunities such as Bright Angel Trail, with attractions on these paths including Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon Village, and Hermit’s Rest. The North Rim is more desolate, while the West Rim is home to both the Hualapai, a native American Indian tribe; and the glass-floored Skywalk, which teeters over the cliff at Eagle Point. Nearby, the smooth rocks of Antelope Canyon and the tranquility of Lake Powell are draws. No matter which tour you choose, aim to watch the sun set over the Grand Canyon as your day draws to a close.
Grand Canyon National Park’s busiest season is also one of its worst for weather: Summer brings in rain, high temperatures, and crowds. You’ll have a much better time visiting the park during the shoulder seasons of April–May and September–October. If you’re eyeing the more-secluded North Rim (only 10 percent of all Grand Canyon visitors see this side of the canyon!), keep in mind that this high-elevation spot is only open May 15–Oct. 15, weather permitting.
You’ll have no issue getting around Grand Canyon National Park—free shuttles traverse the South Rim regularly, even stopping at viewpoints where personal vehicles aren’t permitted. The Grand Canyon Railway runs year-round as do guided tours, and from May–October, there’s rim-to-rim shuttle service as well. Beyond motorized, on-the-ground transport, consider mule trips, horseback riding, helicopter tours, or rafting the Colorado River to discover a wilder side of the canyon.
If you’re looking for the Grand Canyon Skywalk, that glass marvel hangs off the canyon’s western rim, technically on the tribal lands of the Hualapai. Pair walking “off the edge” with a self-guided tour of the Native American Village at Eagle Point. This area known as Grand Canyon West is only 90 minutes from Las Vegas, making it a great day-trip option for quick-hitting visitors.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone MST (UTC -7) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 22 | Tours 46 | Reviews 5,754 |
At Grand Canyon National Park, you get a view of the 1,902-mile (3,061-kilometer) canyon itself, plus get insight into millions of years of Earth history, see ancient petroglyphs, experience classic national park architecture at places like the El Tovar Hotel, spot high desert wildlife, and more.
...MoreThe month to visit Grand Canyon National Park is April, although May is good, too. As national parks get more popular, big-ticket parks like Grand Canyon get more crowded, especially in summer. Shoulder seasons are your best bet for having good weather without the crowds. Once June hits, visitation swells.
...MoreYou’ll want at least two days at Grand Canyon National Park, but three is better. With an overnight stay, you’ll experience the park in all its hues, from evening’s twilight to morning’s warm glow. You’ll also be able to tackle a couple of hikes—the Bright Angel Trail is popular.
...MoreIf you want the views you’ve seen in magazines and on Instagram, head to the South Rim’s designated lookouts including Mather, Hopi, and Shoshone points. If you’ve got the hiking bug, check out Plateau Point on Bright Angel Trail—after some 100 switchbacks, you’ll see unbeatable views of the Colorado River.
...MoreHere are five ways to enjoy the Grand Canyon. Hike on popular trails (South Rim or Bright Angel trails). Snap pictures on the rim. Cruise down Desert View Drive. Eat at the El Tovar Dining Room. And walk on the glass Grand Canyon Skywalk, hanging over the East Rim.
...MoreGrand Canyon National Park is known for having one of the largest canyons in the world, clocking in at 1,902 square miles (3,061 square kilometers). It’s also home to plenty of hikes, tangible Indigenous history, and El Tovar Hotel, one of the National Park Service’s most historic lodges.
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