The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the world and a sought-after destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and those looking to experience its breathtaking beauty. Many visitors are also mesmerized by the area´s geology and rich cultural history.

Located in northern Arizona, the Grand Canyon is known for its massive size, dramatic landscapes, and colorful rock formations that reveal millions of years of geological history. This is a steep-sided canyon carved by the Colorado River. It runs through the Colorado Plateau for a total of 277 miles and is up to 18 miles wide. With a maximum dept of roughly 6,093 feet, it is one of the top-10 deepest canyons in the world. The Grand Canyon is geologically highly significant, because as you visit the canyon, you will get to see uplifted Proterozoic and Paleozoic strata. These exposed rock layers serve as records of the past for the North American continent and are also important for our general understanding of geology and Earth´s past.

The Grand Canyon is a very popular destiation for domestic tourists and foreign visitors alike, and it is not uncommon to combine a Las Vegas vacation with a trip to the canyon. According to data released by the National Park Service, the Grand Canyon National Park received 4.7 million visitors in 2023. Tourism to the park contributed an estimated $768 million to communities near the park that year and supported over 10,000 local jobs, bringing the cummulative benefit for the local economy up to $1 billion.

Visiting the Grand Canyon is an unforgettable experience, offering stunning natural beauty, adventurous activities, and a sense of awe at one of the world’s great natural wonders. Whether you’re hiking into the canyon, enjoying the sunset, or exploring via mule or river raft, the Grand Canyon provides something for everyone. With proper planning and an appreciation for the rugged landscape, your trip to the Grand Canyon will be a truly memorable adventure.

How to Get to the Grand Canyon

By car

From Pheonix, it takes about 3.5 – 4 hours to drive to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

From Las Vegas it takes about 4.5 hours to drive to the South Rim. If you want to drive to the North Rim instead, expect it to take at least 5 hours from Las Vegas.

Driving from Salt Lake City to the North Rim takes around 6 hours.

By train

The Grand Canyon Railway runs from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim and is a scenic and nostalgic way to experience the area. The trip takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes each way. Williams (Havasupai: Wii Gv´ul) is a small city located west of Flagstaff, in Coconino County. It lies on the routes of both Interstate 40 and Historic Route 66, and is known as The Gateway to the Grand Canyon.

By plane

The closest international airports are Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS). Both are connected by shuttle service to the Grand Canyon, and it is also possible to rent a car.

If you are going to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, St. George Regional Airport (SGU) in Utah is a valid option.

Tours from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon

Bus tour

Several different tour companies arrange trips between Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. The most popular destination is the South Rim, but Grand Canyon West is actually closer to Las Vegas. Driving from Las Vegas to the South Rim usually takes around 4.5-5 hours by bus, while the trip from Las Vegas to the West is just 2.5 hours.

The South Rim is more developed for tourism and features many visitor centres associated with the Grand Canyon National Park.

Helicopter tour

From Las Vegas, you can arrange for a helicopter tour to experience the beauty of the Grand Canyon from above. You can get a round-trip only, or book a tour where the helicopter will land and let you get out to explore. Many of the Las Vegas – Grand Canyon helicopter tours also offer stunning views of other landmarks, such as the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Fortification Hill, and Valley of Fire State Park.

Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon

The best time to visit the Grand Canyon depends on which rim you plan to visit and your preferences for weather and crowd size.

Visiting the South Rim

The South Rim has facilities open year round and recieves the largest number of visitors in a year. March-May (spring season) and September – November (fall season) are generally considered the best seasons to visit, because this is when the weather is most likely to be neither too hot nor too snowy. Of course, there are never any guarantees when it comes to weather, so be prepared and watch the weather news as your trip approaches.

During the summer season, temperatures frequently exceeds 90°F (32°C). Sometimes, there will be heavy rains. The winter season is cold and it may snow, but not as much as along the North Rim. Some people love to visit during the winter, when the canyon is less crowded and more peaceful.

Visiting the North Rim

The North Rim is only open from mid-May to mid-October, because during the rest of the year we can expect a lot of heavy snowfall here, and the primary route leading to the North Rim (State Route 67) will experience road closures.

The North Rim is higher in elevation than the South Rim and offers cooler temperatures during the summer months, making it a great escape from the heat. The North Rim averages 8,000 feet above sea level. Just like the South Rim, the North Rim is prone to heavy rains in the summer.

The North Rim gets more rain and snow than the South Rim, and almost all runoff from the North Rim flows toward the canyon. (Much of the runoff on the plateau behind the South Rim does not go into the canyon, it follows the general tilt and moves away from the canyon.) Therefore, the North Rim features tributary washes and side canyons that are both longer and deeper, while the South Rim tend to have shorter and steeper side canyons.

Visiting the Grand Canyon West

The Grand Canyon West is home to the famous Skywalk, a glass-bottomed horse-shoe shaped bridge which extends out over the canyon. The Grand Canyon West is open year-round and located on Hualapai tribal land. It’s closer to Las Vegas than the South and North Rims, and is an excellent choice for a day trip from Sin City if you’re short on time.

Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

There are plenty of activities and sights to explore during your visit to the Grand Canyon. Here are a few suggestions.

Hiking

The Grand Canyon offers trails for hikers of various skill levels, from easy walks along the rim to challenging multi-day hikes.

One of the most popular trails is the Bright Angel Trail (at the South Rim), which offers stunning views of the canyon and access to the Colorado River for experienced hikers. It’s a strenuous hike, and day hikers often choose to turn back at one of the rest stops, e.g. Indian Garden or Plateau Point.

If you want an easier, mostly flat trail, that follows the canyon’s edge, you can pick the Rim Trail and South Rim. Up on the rim, it offers panoramic views, and it is perfect for families with children and other visitors in the mood for a scenic walk without strenuous climbing.

If you are at the North Rim and is up for a strenous hike, the North Kaibab Trail is a challenging but rewarding trail that takes hikers deep into the canyon. This trail connects to the Bright Angel Trail at the river, forming part of the famous rim-to-rim hike.

Rafting the Colorado River

For the adventurous visitor who is not afraid of the water, rafting through the Grand Canyon on the Colorado River offers an unforgettable experience. Trips range from half-day smooth water float trips to multi-day white-water adventures. Many of these trips require advance reservations.

Mule Rides

For a unique way to explore the canyon, consider booking a mule ride. These rides take you down into the canyon along designated trails, providing incredible views with less physical exertion. Book early, as mule rides are incredibly popular and fill up months in advance.

Sunrise and Sunset Viewing

Watching the sun rise or set over the Grand Canyon is a breathtaking experience. The South Rim’s Mather Point and the Yavapai Observation Station are two popular spots for sunrise. For sunsets, Hopi Point and Mohave Point offer spectacular views. The North Rim’s Cape Royal is another stunning location for sunset viewing.

Grand Canyon Skywalk

At Grand Canyon West, visitors can experience the Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends out over the canyon, offering heart-pounding views of the canyon floor. This area is managed by the Hualapai Tribe and is separate from the national park.

Located at Eagle Point, the Grand Canyon Skylwalk is a cantilever bridge built on the edge of a side canyon in the Grand Canyon West area of the main canyon. Commissioned by the Hualapai Indian tribe, it opened to tourists in March 2007. The Skylwalk is located 4,770 ft above sea level and the vertical drop directly below the skylwalk is 500-800 ft.

The distance from Las Vegas to the Skybridge is only 75 miles as the crow flies, but almost 130 miles by car. The closest city with a population exceeding 10,000 people is Kingman, Arizone, which is found roughly 50 miles south of the Skybridge (use Highway 93).

You need a ticket for the Skydbridge. It is not a part of the State Park and no type of State Park entry is valid. Visitors packages are sold at the Grand Canyon West Airport, which is just south of the Skybridge.

While you are at Eagle Point, you can experience plenty of Native American-themed activities and learn more about the indigenous tribes of the region, including the Hualapai, Havasupai, Hopi, Plains, and Navajo. Among other things, there is an amphitheater for Native American dance performances at Eagle Point.

Accommodation and Lodging for Grand Canyon Visits

There are various options for lodging in this area, from campgrounds to luxurious hotels.

• South Rim
  The South Rim is well developed for tourism and offers numerous lodging options, including historic hotels like the El Tovar Hotel and Bright Angel Lodge, both located on the canyon’s edge. There are also more budget-friendly lodges here, like the Yavapai Lodge. The campgrounds are another excellent choice for those looking for a more rustic experience.
• North Rim
  The North Rim has fewer accommodations and is generally less developed for visitors. The Grand Canyon Lodge offers cabins and motel rooms with beautiful views of the canyon, but book early as it fills up quickly during the open season. Campgrounds are also available.
• Grand Canyon West (Skywalk)
  The Hualapai Ranch offers rustic cabins near the Skywalk. There are no upscale hotels here, so if that is important to you, you might want to stay in Las Vegas instead go for a daytrip (or daytrips) to the West. Visitors also stay in Kingman and Peach Springs.

Tips for Visiting the Grand Canyon

• Stay Hydrated: The desert climate can lead to dehydration, especially during the hot summer months. Carry plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike.
• Dress Appropriately: Wear layers as temperatures can vary greatly, especially if you’re visiting in spring or fall. Sturdy shoes are a must if you plan to hike.
• Plan Ahead: If you’re planning to do specific activities like mule rides or rafting, make reservations in advance. The Grand Canyon is a popular destination, and spots fill up quickly.
• Entry Fees: Check the entry fees for the spot you want to visit, as they vary depending on the circumstances. Remember that Grand Canyon West is not a part of the National Park. Tips! An America the Beautiful Annual Pass can also be purchased for $80, which provides access to all national parks in the US for one year.