‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌
‌

Grand Canyon | An overview

Grand Canyon stretches endlessly, revealing ancient rock layers and colossal views that go beyond what most expect. It’s listed as one of the natural wonders of the world and one of the largest canyons on land. Grand Canyon National Park alone gets nearly 5 million visitors a year, drawing people from all over the planet.

  • Location: Arizona
  • Best season: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November)
  • Key attractions: Multiple viewpoints, helicopter tours, boat tours, Hummer tours, camping, hiking, Yavapai Geology Museum, Grand Canyon West Skywalk, El Tovar Lodge

Understanding the Grand Canyon

North Rim

One of the most remote sections of the Grand Canyon, located at a higher elevation than its counterparts. Known for its forested region, rich biodiversity, and unparalleled views from its viewpoints. It’s home to multiple endemic, endangered, and rare species of fauna, along with multiple species of flora that change based on the elevation.

Highlights
▪️ Hiking and camping (recommended for experienced individuals with a high fitness level only)
▪️ Spruce and pine forests
▪️ Point Imperial, Cape Royal, and Bright Angel Point

Location
▪️ Distance from Las Vegas, NV: 270 miles (4.5-hour drive)
▪️ Distance from Williams, AZ: 241 miles (4-hour drive)
▪️ Distance from Page, AZ: 124 miles (2.5-hour drive)
▪️ Distance from Flagstaff, AZ: 207 miles (3.5-hour drive)

Visit the North Rim

South Rim

South Rim is the most popular section within the Grand Canyon National Park, and it offers multiple viewpoints, tour options, cultural centers, dining options, and more. It’s at a much lower altitude than the North Rim and has a convenient shuttle service, making the region easy to navigate.

Highlights
▪️Guided tours, aerial tours, and a variety of experiences to choose from
▪️Cultural landmarks and museums such as the Desert View Watchtower, Yavapai Geology Museum, Hopi House, and more
▪️Grand Canyon Railway, with a historic and scenic train journey from Williams, AZ
▪️Mather Point, Yavapai Point, Lipan Point

Location
▪️Distance from Las Vegas, NV: 270 miles (4.5-hour drive)
▪️Distance from Williams, AZ: 54.5 miles (1-hour drive)
▪️Distance from Page, AZ: 133 miles (2.5-hour drive)
▪️Distance from Flagstaff, AZ: 74 miles (1.5-hour drive)

Visit the South Rim

West Rim

Known for its proximity to Las Vegas, Grand Canyon West has multiple tour options and experiences you can choose from. You can opt for day trips that start from Las Vegas, helicopter tours, water-based adventures, and more. The West Rim is also open to visitors year-round, though it can get hot during the peak summer months.

Highlights
▪️Grand Canyon West Skywalk
▪️Helicopter, ground, and pontoon tours
▪️Eagle Point and Guano Point

Location
▪️Distance from Las Vegas, NV: 126 miles (2-hour drive)
▪️Distance from Williams, AZ: 180 miles (3-hour drive)
▪️Distance from Page, AZ: 342 miles (5.5-hour drive)
▪️Distance from Flagstaff, AZ: 213 miles (3.5-hour drive)
▪️Distance from Grand Canyon National Park: 150 miles (4-hour drive)

Visit Grand Canyon West

East Rim

The East Rim, while not officially designated as a separate rim inside Grand Canyon, lies east of the South Rim and is a part of the Grand Canyon National Park region. The last South Rim viewpoint that marks the beginning of the road towards the East Rim is the Desert View Watchtower.

Highlights
▪️Desert View Drive and Watchtower
▪️Little Colorado River Gorge, Navajo Bridge, and Cameron Trading Post
▪️Views of Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon

Location
▪️Distance from Las Vegas, NV: 324 miles (5-hour drive)
▪️Distance from Williams, AZ: 104 miles (1.5-hour drive)
▪️Distance from Page, AZ: 97 miles (1.5-hour drive)
▪️Distance from Flagstaff, AZ: 70 miles (1-hour drive)
▪️Distance from South Rim entrance: 25 miles (40-minute drive)

Grand Canyon map | Find your way around Grand Canyon

View this map of the overall Grand Canyon region with popular viewpoints, facilities, and attractions listed.

Grand Canyon National Park map highlighting trails and viewpoints.
Download map

​More on Grand Canyon maps and its regions >

Things to know before booking your Grand Canyon tours

▪️Choose your Grand Canyon Rim:

  • South Rim: Choose between Hummer tours with stops at iconic viewpoints, helicopter tours with options for ground tours, and bus tours from Las Vegas.
  • North Rim: Opt for airplane and ground tours if you want to visit from Las Vegas, or helicopter tours with the option to add a guided Hummer tour.
  • West Rim: Choose between multiple tour options. If you want to drive down, you can go for the West Rim tour with Skywalk access, or the helicopter tour with a boat ride, and add-ons that include admission to Grand Canyon West and Skywalk. If you want to start from Las Vegas, you can choose between bus tours, or the helicopter tours, and helicopter tours with floor landing.

▪️Mode of adventure: Choose between multiple tour types that include aerial tours, bus tours, boat tours, Hummer tours, and ground tours with access to attractions such as Skywalk. Please note that the weight limit for aerial tours is capped at 300 pounds (136 kilos), and those exceeding this range will be required to purchase an additional seat/ticket to board.

▪️Duration of visit:

  • Short visits: If you want a quick trip around the Grand Canyon, then you can opt for helicopter tours over Grand Canyon National Park (25/45 mins), airplane tours of Grand Canyon National Park (45 mins), helicopter tours of Grand Canyon West (15 to 90 mins), or airplane tours of Grand Canyon West (20/30 minutes).
  • Half-day trips: You can choose a guided Hummer tour (2 hrs) of the South Rim, a helicopter/airplane tour of Grand Canyon National Park with a Hummer tour (3 hrs), a helicopter tour of the West Rim with floor landing (3-4 hrs), or explore the West Rim’s highlights with Skywalk (4 hrs).
  • Full-day experiences: Opt for full-day bus tours from Las Vegas to the West Rim (10 hrs), or an airplane tour from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park, with a Hummer Tour, and the option to add a helicopter tour for up-close views of Grand Canyon’s iconic viewpoints (6-8 hrs).

▪️Weather conditions: July and August are monsoon months at the Grand Canyon, resulting in poor visibility, thunderstorms, and harsh weather conditions, which could lead to airplane and helicopter tours getting canceled. Although rare, snowstorms can occur in November and December on the South Rim, potentially leading to temporary closures in certain areas.

▪️Beyond Grand Canyon: If you’re visiting the Southwest for a short trip and want to make the most of it, you can add to your Grand Canyon visit by selecting tours that include nearby attractions such as the Hoover Dam or aerial views of the Las Vegas Strip and nearby landmarks.

▪️Why combos are worth it: Tours that include multiple experiences, such as helicopter tours with floor landing, pontoon boat ride, Hummer tours, and add-on tickets such as entry to Skywalk, are a great way to experience Grand Canyon in multiple ways. You can get access to multiple vantage points, attractions, and adventures in one single ticket.

Grand Canyon tours | Your tour types explained

Aerial tours

  • Short aerial tours: If you are primarily interested in enjoying the Grand Canyon’s views from an aerial perspective, the short-duration airplane/helicopter tours are perfect for you.
  • Premium aerial tours: For those seeking a more elaborate Grand Canyon experience that combines both aerial views and on-the-ground exploration, consider more comprehensive aerial tours. These tours often come with additional perks like a floor landing, a boat ride, a Hummer tour, or a picnic with champagne on the canyon floor.
Find all Grand Canyon aerial tours here

Bus tours

  • Full-day adventures: Cover all the main attractions like Hoover Dam, Eagle Point, and Guano Point, with plenty of time at each site to take photos.
  • Convenience and comfort: Bus tours include round-trip transportation from Las Vegas, comfortable air-conditioned coaches, and included meals.
  • Guided commentary: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with engaging commentary on landmarks, history, and geology.
Bus tours and tours with round-trip transport

Hummer tours

  • Scenic South Rim exploration: Hummer tours allow you to explore popular South Rim lookout points like Mather Point and Imperial Point.
  • Personalized with knowledgeable guides: Smaller group sizes make for a more intimate experience with special attention from your tour guides.
  • Comfort and accessibility: These tours are often wheelchair-accessible and offer comfortable seating.
Learn more about Grand Canyon Hummer tours

Boat tours

  • Scenic float: Drift along the Colorado River in a motorized raft or a pontoon boat while you take in the canyon's grandeur.
  • Relaxing experience: The gentle pace of the pontoon boat allows for a leisurely experience, giving you some time to pause and enjoy the natural wonders surrounding you.
  • Spot some wildlife: The boat ride often provides opportunities to see local wildlife, including various bird species and possibly river otters along the banks.
Find all Grand Canyon boat tours here

Tours from Las Vegas

  • Multiple tour types and inclusions: Aerial tours and bus tours offer round-trip transport from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park or Grand Canyon West, along with optional hotel pick-up, lunch, and guided excursions. 
  • Convenience: They are a convenient and hassle-free way of exploring the highlights of Grand Canyon’s rims, with all inclusions provided to create a seamless visit.
  • Tour duration: Your tour options include half-day aerial tours or full-day bus/aerial tours of the Grand Canyon.
All Grand Canyon tours starting from Las Vegas

Tours with canyon floor landing

  • Exclusive canyon floor access: Descend 4,000 feet below the rim and step onto the canyon floor for an intimate experience and exploration.
  • Champagne and add-on experiences: Enjoy a champagne toast with light refreshments on the canyon floor, enjoy a boat ride, or spend time exploring the rim’s attractions.
  • Scenic return flight: Enjoy a scenic return with optional aerial views of the Las Vegas Strip, combining breathtaking sights with a touch of luxury.
Find all Grand Canyon tours with floor landing here

Highlights of your Grand Canyon tours

Grand Canyon Skywalk overlooking canyon at sunset, part of Las Vegas helicopter tour.

Grand Canyon Skywalk (West Rim)

Step onto this glass bridge suspended approximately 4,000 feet above the canyon for unmatched panoramic views.

Visitors gather at Mather Point to view the sunset over the Grand Canyon, USA.
Grand Canyon Yavapai Point with snow-dusted cliffs on a clear morning.
Colorado River winding through the rocky cliffs at the start of the Grand Canyon.
Grand Canyon West view at Eagle Point, showcasing layered red rock formations, USA.

​Discover all the things you can do around Grand Canyon here >

Plan your visit

Man viewing Grand Canyon from Hopi Point overlook.
  • Open hours: While most of the Grand Canyon itself is open to visitors 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, the activities and tours usually take place between 8am and 6pm.
  • Visitor Center hours: 
    South Rim: 8am to 4pm (May 23 to Aug 31), 8am to 5pm (Sep 1 to May 22)
    North Rim: 8am to 5pm (mid-May to mid-October)
    West Rim: 8am to 7:15pm (last tickets sold at 5pm), timings during winter months may vary
Learn more about Grand Canyon’s timings here
Group enjoying Grand Canyon view on Las Vegas to Grand Canyon airplane and Hummer tour.
  • Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to visit the Grand Canyon, with milder weather perfect for hiking and exploring.
  • Summer (June to August): Summer brings extreme heat, but despite the heat, it is the peak tourist season. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August.
  • Fall (September to November): Fall is one of the most pleasant times to visit the Grand Canyon, with cooler temperatures at the South Rim. The North Rim closes in mid-October due to snowfall.
  • Winter (December to February): Snowfall is common, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F (-1°C to 10°C). Roads can occasionally close due to heavy snowfall, and icy conditions make some trails difficult to traverse.
More on Grand Canyon’s weather

Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim and North Rim)

There are two main entrances for Grand Canyon National Park: South Rim (most popular) and North Rim (seasonal).

  • Grand Canyon Visitor Center (South Rim): S Entrance Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, United States | Find on Maps
    Nearby landmark: Mather Point (0.3 miles)
    Distance from South Rim Entrance Station: 10-minute drive (5 miles)
    Distance from Grand Canyon National Park Airport: 15-minute drive (7.9 miles)
    Parking: The Visitor Center has 4 major parking lots surrounding the Visitor Center.
  • North Rim Visitor Center: AZ-67, North Rim, AZ 86023, United States | Find on Maps
    Nearby landmark: Grand Canyon Lodge - North Rim (0.1 miles)
    Distance from South Rim: 3.5-hour drive (198 miles)
    Parking: There is a designated parking lot located near the Visitor Center and Grand Canyon Lodge.

Grand Canyon West (West Rim)

Address: 5001 E Diamond Bar Rd, Peach Springs, AZ 86434, United States | Find on Maps
Nearby landmark: Grand Canyon West Sign (1.5 miles)

Distance from Grand Canyon West airport/heliport: 2-minute walk (250 ft.)
Distance from South Rim: 4-hour drive (239 miles)
Distance from Las Vegas: 2-hour drive (126 miles)
Parking: Overnight Parking (near the Grand Canyon West Sign) and Parking Lot A (near the airport) offer parking.

Wheelchair accessible route sign with arrow pointing right.
  • Wheelchair-accessible areas: The South Rim offers several accessible viewpoints, including Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View Watchtower, all equipped with paved paths. The Rim Trail near Grand Canyon Village is also wheelchair-friendly. The West Rim is also relatively wheelchair accessible with paved paths, accessible entrance to the Skywalk, and accessible shuttles.
  • Wheelchair availability: The South Rim Visitor Center rents manual wheelchairs free of charge, subject to availability.
  • Shuttle buses: Most shuttle buses at the South Rim and West Rim are wheelchair accessible and equipped with ramps and tie-downs.
  • Service animals: Service animals are allowed in all areas where visitors are normally allowed to go.
  • North Rim access: While more remote, the North Rim has one paved viewpoint, which is the Bright Angel Point, but the terrain can be more rugged than the South Rim​.
Desert bighorn sheep standing on a rocky ledge at the Grand Canyon.
  • Drones: Flying drones in Grand Canyon National Park is strictly prohibited without a special permit. Ensure you comply with this rule to avoid fines.
  • Weather considerations: Summer temperatures in the inner canyon can exceed 110°F, making hydration crucial. Bring at least 1 gallon of water per person per day if you’re hiking below the rim.
  • Wildlife: The Grand Canyon is home to a diverse array of animals, including squirrels, deer, and even mountain lions. Never feed or approach wildlife, as it’s illegal and dangerous.
  • Trail safety: Stay on marked trails and avoid shortcuts. The steep drop-offs at many viewpoints can be hazardous. Always hike with appropriate gear and check weather conditions before starting. Avoid hiking and camping in the North Rim unless you are at least moderately fit with no mobility restrictions.
Find out more about hiking trails in Grand Canyon
Helicopter flying over the Grand Canyon West Rim with scenic views of the canyon landscape.

South Rim
▪️El Tovar Dining Room: A historic restaurant located in the El Tovar Hotel, offering gourmet meals with stunning canyon views. | Find on Maps
▪️Arizona Steakhouse: Modern take on classics, featuring steaks, BBQ, and burgers, with canyon views. | Find on Maps
▪️Market Plaza: Offers a variety of options, including Canyon Village Market for groceries. | Find on Maps

West Rim
▪️Skywalk Café: Located at Eagle Point, this café offers snacks and quick meals with views of the Skywalk. | Find on Maps

North Rim
▪️Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room: Known for its rustic charm and views of the North Rim, this restaurant offers both breakfast and dinner made with local ingredients. | Find on Maps

Learn more about dining and restaurants around Grand Canyon
Modern luxury hotel reception with stylish seating and decorative plants.

South Rim

North Rim

West Rim

Find all your stay options here
Group enjoying a Hummer tour at Grand Canyon National Park.
  • Dress in layers while taking the helicopter tours. Even during the summer, it can get chilly in the helicopter.
  • On boat tours, take motion sickness precautions if you're prone to seasickness.
  • Hummer tours cover rugged terrain, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. 
  • The Grand Canyon operates a free shuttle bus service at the South Rim. It runs along four routes: Village Route, Kaibab/Rim Route, Hermit Road Route, and Tusayan Route (seasonal). The buses stop at key viewpoints, lodges, and visitor centers, making it easy to get around.
  • If you plan on hiking below the rim, keep in mind the hike down is much easier than the hike back up.
  • Whether hiking or sightseeing, start your day early to avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds, especially in the summer.
  • Cell phone service is spotty throughout the park, especially below the rim. Download maps and guides ahead of time.
Plan your visit to the Grand Canyon

Accessibility points to keep in mind while navigating Grand Canyon’s rims

Bridge to Bright Angel Point, Grand Canyon, Arizona, with canyon views at sunrise.

North Rim
▪️Bright Angel Point is the most accessible viewpoint and can be visited by people of all fitness levels.
▪️Hiking and camping in the high altitudes of the North Rim is not recommended for those with any physical limitations.

South Rim
▪️The South Rim is open to visitors year-round, though some sections may close in case of severe weather conditions.
▪️This region is accessible to all visitors, with convenient shuttles, accessible viewpoints, multiple dining and stay options, and a relatively moderate climate.

West Rim
▪️The West Rim is easily accessible with options for bus tours and aerial tours from Las Vegas.
▪️Many areas are also wheelchair accessible, with paved pathways and ADA-compliant facilities.

Grand Canyon itineraries | Grand Canyon National Park and Grand Canyon West

Grand Canyon National Park (4-5 hours)

  • South Rim Visitor Center (30 minutes):
    The Visitor Center is a great starting point where you can gather information, pick up maps, and get insights into the park’s history and geology.
  • Mather Point (30 minutes):
    Head to Mather Point, one of the most popular and easily accessible viewpoints on the South Rim. Enjoy panoramic views of the canyon and take in the vastness of the Grand Canyon.
  • Bright Angel Trail (1 hour):
    Experience a portion of the famous Bright Angel Trail. You don’t have to hike all the way down to the river, but even a short hike down provides incredible views.
  • Helicopter tour (30 minutes - 1 hour):
    For a bird’s-eye view of the Grand Canyon, take a helicopter tour that gives you a sense of the canyon's scale.
  • Yaki Point (30 minutes):
    Visit Yaki Point, which is less crowded and offers an excellent vantage point for photos, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
  • Desert View Watchtower (1 hour):
    Finish your day at Desert View Watchtower, located at the eastern end of the South Rim. This historic tower offers fantastic views of the canyon and the Colorado River and provides a great spot for a peaceful break.

Grand Canyon West (4-5 hours)

  • Skywalk (1 hour):
    Start your Grand Canyon West Rim adventure by stepping out onto the famous Skywalk. This glass bridge extends over the edge of the canyon, offering thrilling views 4,000 feet above the Colorado River below.
  • Eagle Point (1 hour):
    Explore Eagle Point, known for its eagle-shaped rock formation. Here, you can also enjoy cultural exhibits at the Hualapai Village, showcasing the traditions and crafts of the Hualapai tribe.
  • Guano Point (1 hour):
    Visit Guano Point, one of the most scenic points on the West Rim. Hike the short trails to the top of the point for spectacular panoramic views of the canyon and the Colorado River, and discover the history of the old Guano mining operation.
  • Helicopter tour (30 minutes - 1 hour):
    Take a thrilling helicopter ride to see the Grand Canyon from above. Choose from various tour options, including a ride to the floor of the canyon, offering a unique perspective and views you can’t get from the rim.
  • Colorado River tour (1 hour):
    If time allows, hop aboard a river tour for an exciting boat ride along the Colorado River. This experience lets you see the Grand Canyon from the water, providing a stunning view of the canyon walls and the natural beauty surrounding the river.

​Find detailed itinerary options for different types of Grand Canyon visits here >

Beyond Grand Canyon

Antelope Canyon

​Antelope Canyon is a narrow sandstone slot canyon near Page, Arizona, known for its swirling carved walls and shafts of light that reach the canyon floor at certain times of day. It is located on Navajo land, so entry is only allowed through guided tours. Photographers often plan their visit midday when light beams are most visible.

Horseshoe Bend

A curved section of the Colorado River that forms a near-perfect horseshoe shape, located just outside Page, Arizona. It’s a short 1.5-mile round-trip walk from the parking area and results in picture-perfect views of the Colorado River. Best visited at midday when the river is fully lit.

Hoover Dam

A massive concrete arch-gravity dam spanning the Nevada-Arizona border built during the Great Depression. Hoover Dam is known as an architectural and engineering marvel, and a must-visit for its historic background. Visitors can tour the powerplant, walk across the dam, or view it from the bypass bridge.

Frequently asked questions about Grand Canyon tours

If it’s your first time and you want the classic viewpoints, choose the South Rim. For a quick trip from Las Vegas with attractions like the Skywalk, the West Rim is the most convenient. The North Rim is quieter and cooler in summer but has a much shorter season (closed in winter).