More Than Just a Selfie
Grand Canyon National Park is home to experiences, viewpoints, wildlife, and awe-struck adventures that can’t be replicated anywhere else.
Whether you’re planning your first visit to this bucket list geological wonder, or if you’re a seasoned visitor who has a favorite trail, Grand Canyon will provide you with new experiences and core memories that will last a lifetime – beyond just a selfie on the rim.
Best of all, the South Rim is welcoming and accessible to all, with activities and experiences to match every interest and ability.
Best Places to Stay
No matter what type of adventure you’re planning, the Grand Canyon region has lodging options to suit your needs. Conveniently located in the heart of Grand Canyon’s South Rim, Yavapai Lodge offers a comfortable place to unwind that is central to in-park dining, walkable canyon views, and the Grand Canyon General Store. Looking for additional amenities? Look no further than The Squire at Grand Canyon. Boasting a variety of on-site entertainment options like a heated outdoor pool bowling alley, arcade, and indoor pool with “dive-in” movies, on top of several on-site restaurants, The Squire provides a resort amenities only minutes from the South Rim entrance to Grand Canyon National Park.
Can’t-Miss Experiences
There’s no wrong way to experience the Grand Canyon, but there are plenty of opportunities to experience even more of it. The adventurous at heart can check out the canyon from the birds-eye view with Papillion Grand Canyon Helicopters, or rent an e-bike and take a self-guided tour of the Greenway Trail. For a truly unique experience, reserve a Mule Ride to descend into the canyon. For an immersive experience that combines learning and unbeatable views, try a Buck Wild Hummer Tour.
Must-See Sites
Rich with geological wonder and Indigenous heritage, Grand Canyon National Park offers unforgettable sights, hands-on learning experiences, and meaningful cultural exploration—welcoming travelers of all abilities to discover its many layers. Some favorite Grand Canyon icons include Desert View Watchtower, Hopi House, Yavapai Geology Museum, and Kolb Studio.
Hiking Trails
Grand Canyon National Park caters to adventurers of all abilities and preferences, offering a variety of opportunities to explore. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a leisure walker, you can find plenty of trails offering nothing but breathtaking views. Here are a few of the can’t-miss hiking trails in the South Rim of Grand Canyon:
- Rim Trail – a leisure trail that offers unbeatable vistas and iconic viewpoints, stretching from South Kaibab Trailhead to Hermit’s Rest
- South Kaibab Trail – an out-and-back trail that descends into the canyon, fit for those who welcome a challenge. Hike to and from viewpoints like Ooh Ahh Point (1-2 hours round trip), Cedar Ridge (2-4 hours), Skeleton Point (3-5 hours), or the Tip Off (4-6 hours), or to the Colorado River the floor of the canyon (5-6 hours each way).
- Bright Angel Trail – another out-and-back trail, though with shaded areas and water stations available along the descent. Take in the canyon views along the trail and at breathtaking landmarks, including the 1 ½-Mile Resthouse (1-2 hours round trip), 3-Mile Resthouse (3-4 hours), Indian Garden (5-6 hours), or Plateau Point (8-10 hours), or make the challenging descent to the Colorado River and River Resthouse (5-6 hours one-way).
Remember, always be prepared with the proper gear and water, especially as you descend into the canyon. Allow yourself ample time: expect the ascent out to take twice as long as your hike into the canyon.
Suggested Itineraries
Let our itinerary planner help you plan the ultimate Grand Canyon adventure! Whether you’re diving into the canyon’s rich history and culture, hiking to awe-inspiring vistas, or soaring above it all on a thrilling helicopter tour, there’s no better place to explore the great outdoors than the Grand Canyon.
Need more trip planning inspiration? Learn more about the can’t-miss Grand Canyon moments below!
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Discover Wildlife
Grand Canyon National Park is a must-visit for wildlife lovers, home to an incredible array of animals—from mule deer and elk to the iconic California Condor soaring overhead.
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Southwestern Dining
Whether you prefer dining in the park at the end of an adventure, or relaxing outside of the park and savoring local cuisine, the Grand Canyon region boasts supreme Southwestern dining fit for any taste. Enjoy a local brew and hearty bites at Yavapai Tavern, centrally located in the South Rim, or venture minutes outside of the park to Desert Lounge for an elevated dining experience. Looking to unwind? Check out Squire Pub + Social in Tusayan, AZ, for an evening of pub food, arcade games, and bowling!
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Explore Museums
Grand Canyon is home to a range of immersive learning experiences with museums and cultural landmarks. Explore the geological evolution of the land at Yavapai Geology Museum, immersive yourself in history through photography at Kolb Studio, or learn more about the local Indigenous culture at Desert View Watchtower – all complete with breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon.
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Scenic Viewpoints
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon features some of the world’s most stunning overlooks, including Mather, Yavapai, and Hopi Points. Easily accessed by shuttle or the Rim Trail, each viewpoint offers a unique glimpse into the canyon’s dramatic depth, colors, and ancient geology—changing beautifully with the light throughout the day.
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Adventurous Tours
If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge, Grand Canyon National Park is an ideal destination. Thrill seekers can rejoice with experiences like white water rafting, helicopter tours, and Jeep tours, all complete with awe-inspiring views.
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Mule Rides
For a memorable adventure, Grand Canyon offers two guided mule rides—either along the rim or down into the depths of the canyon itself. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is available at both the North and South Rims.
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Dark Sky
For stargazers and night sky enthusiasts, nothing compares to the brilliance of a truly dark sky. At Grand Canyon National Park—an official International Dark Sky Park designated by the IDA—you’ll experience the cosmos in all its glory, with stars, planets, and celestial wonders lighting up the night like nowhere else.
DISCOVER
At the one-of-a-kind Grand Canyon National Park, the opportunities to explore are endless. Plan your adventure today.
TOURS
Experience an up-close view of the park, and learn about the fascinating history, geology and wildlife that makes the Grand Canyon such an extraordinary place.