Everything you need to know to plan your visit to the Grand Canyon

Best time to visit the Grand Canyon

Summer months, June to August, get the most visitors coming to the Grand Canyon. Both the North Rim and the South Rim are accessible during these months, and the West Rim has a lot of day trip tours from Las Vegas as well, despite the hot temperatures. 

If you want to avoid crowds and explore the Grand Canyon more peacefully, it’s recommended that you visit during the spring. March to May has fewer crowds, and all the sections of the canyon are open as well (the North Rim is accessible until mid-May). The weather is pleasant, and there is very little chance of snowfall or rainfall, so you can experience the Grand Canyon to its fullest without the rush. September through November also offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds at the canyon, but there is limited accessibility because the North Rim closes to visitors from mid-October, and there are higher chances of rain and thunderstorms. 

Winter months, December through February, are the coldest in the Grand Canyon. There is snowfall, but the South Rim and West Rim are still open for tours. There might be delays or closures in certain areas due to unforeseen weather conditions, so you should ideally check in advance before booking your tours.

Visitor tips

• Book in advance: Stay, tours, and Skywalk tickets sell out quickly, so make sure you book your tours in advance. Restaurants like the El Tovar Dining Room can also get quite busy, so make a reservation before you visit.
• Dress according to the weather conditions: Weather can get quite harsh, so carry a jacket even in the summer. Remember to wear sun protection and comfortable shoes you can hike in.
• Stay hydrated: Carry refillable water bottles, especially for hiking.
• Safety: Stay behind safety railings. Some areas, especially in the West Rim, have no guardrails.
• Shuttle service: Grand Canyon National Park has a free shuttle service that operates frequently, across four routes: Village Route, Kaibab/Rim Route, Hermit Road Route, and Tusayan Route (seasonal). Use the shuttle to travel between popular viewpoints and visitor centers on your visit.
• Keep your map handy: There is spotty reception at the canyon, so it’s best to keep a downloaded version of your map and guides in advance.
• Do not engage with the wildlife: Avoid feeding or approaching any animals you may encounter in the canyon.