The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous natural attractions on the planet but, besides taking in the views, very few people will actually know what there is to do there when they arrive. We aim to change that with our Grand Canyon National Park guide.
We will provide you with detailed information on what to do in Grand Canyon National Park itself, as well as the top attractions in the fabulous locations that surround it. We will even provide vital tips on things like where to stay, when to visit, and how long for.
This should ensure you have all you need to plan your own dream Grand Canyon National Park travel itinerary. So, if you plan to visit Grand Canyon National Park for yourself and want to make sure you have the best trip imaginable, I highly recommend reading on.
Facts & Figures About Grand Canyon National Park
With an average of more than 4.5 million annual visitors, Grand Canyon National Park is the 4th most visited national park in the United States, behind Great Smoky Mountains, Zion, and Yellowstone. The Grand Canyon itself is also one of the most visited canyons on the planet.
Established on the 26th of February 1919, it is the nation’s 13th oldest national park. Its 1.2 million acre area also makes it the 4th largest park in the lower 48 states and 11th largest in the entire U.S.
Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the Grand Canyon is 277 miles (446 km) long, 15 miles (24 km) wide, and 1 mile (1.6 km) deep. This makes it one of the largest canyons on Earth by all three metrics, while it is also believed by many to be the most famous canyon in the world.
The Grand Canyon was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 and is often listed among the Seven Natural Wonders Of The World, although no single, official list has ever been agreed upon.
Grand Canyon National Park Temperature
The Grand Canyon National Park Temperature usually ranges between a low of 18.2°F (-7.7°C) and a high of 84.9°F (29.4°C). The highest temperature ever recorded in the park is 101°F (38°C) and the lowest is -20°F (-29°C).
The highest temperatures in the park occur between late May and mid-September, while the coldest stretch is from mid-November to mid-March. The park experiences some precipitation between July and March, with heavy snowfall between late November and the start of April.
Best Time To Visit Grand Canyon National Park
The best time to visit Grand Canyon National Park for most people is from mid-May to the end of June. This period will allow you to experience the park during its dry stretch and with warm, pleasant weather, with all of its attractions open, before the blistering highs begin to kick in in July.
The Wildlife & Landscape Of Grand Canyon National Park
The landscape of Grand Canyon National Park obviously centres around the Grand Canyon itself, as well as the Colorado River that runs through it. The area that surrounds much of the canyon is then made up of the upper and lower Sonoran desert.
While there are more than 2,000 species of different plants throughout the Grand Canyon, most are types of bushes, fungi, lichen, moss, and vascular plants.
The exception to this is around the edges of the canyon and in the surrounding forests, where you will find various types of grasses and trees.
The wildlife of Grand Canyon National Park varies between regions, but the park is known to house at least 90 species of mammals, including 22 types of bats, and 18 types of rodents, 41 reptiles, 37 molluscs, 33 crustaceans, 370 birds, of which 48 are nesting, and a selection of amphibians.
The most commonly seen animals in the Grand Canyon are antelope squirrels, bighorn sheep, condors, coyotes, mule deer, pocket mice, ringtails, spotted skunks, and tassel eared squirrels.
How To Get To Grand Canyon National Park
The closest airport to Grand Canyon National Park is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, which is 85.5 miles (137.6 km) away and takes 1 and ¼ hours to drive to.
For international travellers, the nearest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. This is 228 miles (367 km) away and takes 3 and ¼ hours to drive to. The times and distances listed for both of these airports relate to Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim Entrance.
The closest major airport to Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim Entrance is Harry Reid International Airport, in Las Vegas. This is 272 miles (438 km) away and takes 4.5 hours to drive to. It is an almost identical time and distance from the South Rim Entrance as well.
Top Attractions In Grand Canyon National Park
No that you know a little more about the park, it’s time we move on to our list of the top attractions in Grand Canyon National Park.
This will cover all of the highlights from this incredible natural location, to ensure you can plan a travel itinerary that perfectly matches your own dream vacation.
Learn About The History Of The Grand Canyon At The Park’s Museums
While there is plenty of information about the Grand Canyon dotted along the South Rim Trail, those who want to learn more about Grand Canyon National Park can do so in a pair of fabulous museums located near the South Rim.
The Yavapai Observation Station Geology Museum contains a topographic relief model of the canyon itself and information on the various layers of rock that form its walls. This will help you to get a better understanding of just how the Grand Canyon came to be.
The Tusayan Museum is a historic stone building full of prehistoric tribal artefacts and handicrafts, to educate visitors on the native people who traditionally inhabited the region.
The Tusayan Ruin behind it even gives you the opportunity to explore the ruins of an ancient Pueblo Village.
Between these three locations, you should be able to get a clear picture of the complete history of Grand Canyon National Park.
Make A Trip To The Isolated North Rim
The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is much more difficult to get to and is even closed during the winter, due to heavy snow. As a result, it receives significantly fewer visitors than the South Rim.
This makes it a great place to go for those who want to enjoy views of the Grand Canyon in a quieter, more natural setting, without being surrounded by mobs of tourists. The Bright Angel Point scenic overlook is considered by many to be the best place to do just that in the entire park.
You don’t have to worry about being completely cut off though. The North Rim Visitor Center is staffed by rangers whenever the North Rim entrance is open and provides educational information, a washroom, and the chance to buy books or essential supplies during your visit.
See The Exhibits In The Historic Kolb Studio
Kolb Studio is a historic building at the end of the South Rim Trail that served as the photographic studio of the Kolb brothers, Ellsworth and Emery, from 1904, two years after they arrived at the Grand Canyon, to 1976, when the last surviving brother passed away.
Having been acquired by the National Park Service, it was handed over to the Grand Canyon Conservancy and heavily renovated.
Having since been converted into an art gallery, bookstore, and information centre, it is a fabulous place to experience an important part of the Grand Canyon’s history, see some stunning views, and enjoy one of the most historic buildings in all of Grand Canyon National Park.
See The Sun Rise Or Set From The Desert View Visitor Center
The Desert View Visitor Center is located just a short drive from the attractions of Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim. One of the more iconic buildings in the park, it is centred around the Desert View Watchtower, a 7 storey stone tower built in 1932.
What makes the area truly special though is that it offers one of the best views of the Grand Canyon you will find anywhere in the park. This is true from the ground, and the views only get better when you ascend to the top of the tower.
This makes it a perfect opportunity to witness a Grand Canyon sunrise or sunset. While the Grand Canyon is a truly breathtaking sight no matter when you see it, there is something truly magical about watching the sun rise or fall across its landscape.
For those who are interested, the Desert View Visitor Center is also where you will find the 1956 TWA-United Airlines Accident Site National Historic Landmark. It also features one of the only 2 gas stations in the park, as well as a convenience store selling snacks, supplies, and coffee.
Hike Down To The Colorado River
The views from the top of the Grand Canyon are truly breathtaking but they are only the start of the experience. Once you have soaked them in, it is time to hike down into the Grand Canyon itself.
This is where you will spend much of the duration of your visit, as it gives you the chance to see the rock formations and wildlife of the park up close, helping you to understand it more clearly. This will let you feel the real heat of the park and get a better appreciation for just how deep it truly is.
Those who are feeling particularly energetic or adventurous can even try to make it all the way to the Colorado River. While this is definitely a taxing expedition, there is something truly powerful about getting to see the body of water that carved this mammoth canyon with your own eyes.
Take A Ride On A Mule Or Horse
For those who want to travel down into the canyon but aren’t a fan of hiking, don’t think their body is up to it, or simply want to do it in style, why not consider making the journey on a mule?
With both day trips and longer expeditions with an overnight stop at the Inner Canyon Phantom Ranch Cabins available, this is the ideal option for those who want to explore the Grand Canyon in depth but do it in style.
Mule rides can be booked from the Bright Angel Transportation Desk while horses are available from Apache Stables.
Get An Aerial View Of The Grand Canyon In A Helicopter Or Plane
With a feature as vast as the Grand Canyon, there is only so much of it you will ever be able to see from the ground, while its true enormity will still be lost on many. The only way to see it in a way that gives you the full picture of your destination is by taking to the skies.
Luckily for you, both helicopters and planes are available, with Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours available from the South Rim and the Grand Canyon Airlines Grand Discovery Tour departing from Grand Canyon National Park Airport.
Both options will allow you to soar over the Grand Canyon, seeing it from a different perspective, and taking in views that you will never forget, for a truly unbelievable experience.
Sail Down The Colorado River
One of the largest rivers in the southwest United States and the very thing that created the Grand Canyon, the Colorado River itself should be at the heart of most Grand Canyon tours. However, there is no reason to just explore it by land though.
For those seeking a watery adventure, why not book yourself onto a guided water bus or rafting tour along the river, or take a canoe or kayak with you to explore it on your own.
This will allow you to enjoy some high octane entertainment, while getting to see parts of the Grand Canyon you simply can’t reach by any other means. Those who want to take their time can even enjoy the fabulous, isolated beaches dotted along the banks of the river.
Things To See And Do Near Grand Canyon National Park
While the Grand Canyon itself will almost certainly be the highlight of your trip, that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty on offer around it as well.
With that in mind, we will now look at the best things to see and do near Grand Canyon National Park, to ensure you can plan the most comprehensive travel itinerary possible.
Pay A Visit To The Havasupai Indian Reservation
The Havasupai Indian Reservation is a 295 square mile (763 square km) Indian reservation on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. It lies immediately west of Grand Canyon National Park and to the east of Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument.
With far less visitors and tourist features than Grand Canyon National Park, the Hualapai Indian Reservation provides a great opportunity to see the Grand Canyon in a more natural light.
As a functioning Indian reservation that’s among the most remote in the U.S., it is also a much better way for people interested in learning about the cultures and customs of the native people to do so. For many though, the top attraction on the Havasupai Indian Reservation is Havasu Falls.
Located deep within the reservation, this beautiful waterfall flows into a pool of crystal clear turquoise water, to create a true desert oasis. While it requires a lengthy hike to reach, with no roads in the area, it is more than worth the effort for those who make the trip.
Explore Kaibab National Forest
Kaibab National Forest covers 1.6 million acres and stretches to both the North and South rims of the Grand Canyon.
Unlike the mainly dry, rocky environment of the Grand Canyon, Kaibab boasts a range of aspen, fir, juniper, oak, pine, and spruce forests, as well as a variety of bushes and wildlife.
The landscape also includes a number of notable features, like the stunning Scholz Lake and Historic Spring Valley Cabin, which was built in 1917 for the park rangers. This all makes Kaibab National Forest a great place to continue exploring the best natural locations Arizona has to offer.
Spend A Day In Flagstaff
Known as “The City Of Seven Wonders”, thanks to the wide range of natural attractions that surround it, Flagstaff is a fabulous city that offers plenty for visitors to enjoy.
It is also known as “The City In The Pines”, due to being in Coconino National Forest, the largest Ponderosa pine forest in the continent, which covers 2 million acres.
When you combine these two facts, Flagstaff becomes perhaps the best city in the United States for people who love nature. You can spend your days hiking through forests, peaks, and rock formations, and enjoying the lakes and monuments the region has to offer.
Then, you can settle down of an evening in a city with its own unique vibe and a wide range of amenities to have fun, recover, and get ready to do it all again.
Explore The Historic Towns Along Route 66
Route 66 runs from Chicago to Los Angeles and is one of the most historic roads in the entire United States.
As the stretch that runs just to the south of the Grand Canyon may be the most iconic section of its entire 2,448 mile (3,940 km) length, it is definitely worth checking out while you are here.
Along this stretch you will find a number of historic towns, such as Winslow, Williams, Seligman, and Kingman. Each of these are filled with attractions like museums and galleries, dedicated to the history of Route 66, petrolania, the railroad, and the region in general.
Between them, they paint a fabulous picture of how this legendary part of the United States has evolved over the past 100 years.
Travel Through The Grand Canyon By Train
With the Grand Canyon being so vast, exploring it all by foot is an impossible ask. While there are a number of ways for visitors to visit Grand Canyon National Park, perhaps the most unique is by train, which you can do from the Grand Canyon Railway Depot in Williams.
Here you can see some historic engines and architecture synonymous with the old west railroad, before jumping on board a classic train headed for the Grand Canyon. This provides visitors the chance to enjoy a unique experience, while seeing parts of the landscape not visible from the road.
Depending on when you visit Grand Canyon National Park, you may even be able to enjoy one of the Grand Canyon Railway’s special seasonal events. The “Polar Express” trips based on the movie are particularly popular with families and give you the chance to see the Grand Canyon in the snow.
Best Place To Stay Near Grand Canyon National Park – Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon
The Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon is a fabulous hotel located in Kaibab National Forest, just a 7 mile (11 km), 13 minute drive from the South Rim Entrance to Grand Canyon National Park. This makes it a perfect option for both convenience and scenic surroundings.
Each of the spacious rooms and suites is simply yet stylishly furnished and decorated. They all boast amenities like air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, a flat screen cable TV, and access to free Wi-Fi and free parking. Many also offer incredible views.
Other features at the property include an indoor hot tub and swimming pool, an ATM, and facilities for disabled guests.
How Many Days To Spend In Grand Canyon National Park
To fully enjoy the experience, it is recommended you spend 2 full days in Grand Canyon National Park. This will give you one day to visit all the attractions on both the North and South Rim, such as the museums, while allowing time for the near 4 hour drive between the two.
It will then give you an entire day to hike down into the canyon to see the various layers of rock up close and perhaps even reach the Colorado River that created it. It will even give you the chance to witness both sunset and sunrise over the canyon, each of which is uniquely beautiful in its own right.
For those who only have a single day, you will still be able to have an enjoyable trip, it will just be more limited. It is recommended you limit your visit to the South Rim, as there is simply more to see there. You will also need to stick to a shorter hike into the Grand Canyon.
For those who have longer to spare, you can easily fill more than 2 days with the various activities on offer, although 4 to 5 will likely be the absolute maximum for the vast majority of people.
Conclusion
Grand Canyon National Park is an absolutely fabulous destination and truly deserves its reputation as one of the natural wonders of the world. Our Grand Canyon National Park guide will hopefully have given you all you need to have the best experience possible when you see it for yourself.
From when to go, where to stay, and how long for, to the best things to see and do in both Grand Canyon National Park and its surrounding area, you have all the information required to plan a dream travel itinerary.
All that’s left to do is start getting things booked, so you can look forward to your very own visit.