Grand Canyon Trip Planning

Grand Canyon trip-planning has changed a bit since the pandemic, but trip-planning can never begin too soon. Typically, a Grand Canyon visit requires advance reservations at Grand Canyon hotels sometimes over a year out. These days, national parks are still busier than one would expect, but hotel availability close to the Canyon is far more likely even with shorter notice these days. Your Grand Canyon experience will depend on the time of year you would like to travel, your budget, and your travel and adventure preferences. Hopefully, this guide will help you prioritize to get the most of your visit. So without further ado, let's get started!

Really, there are three rims of the Grand Canyon: South, West and North. The "East Rim" is more of the Lake Powell/Page area that is not really the Grand Canyon but is still part of the Colorado Plateau. The East Rim area is well known for attractions such as Lake Powell, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon. Take a look at the map and see which rim is most reasonable for you to travel to and if it has the accommodations and attractions you are wanting to experience.

South Rim

The South Rim accessed typically through Arizona offers the classic national park experience. You can use a National Parks Pass to get in or pay $35/vehicle total for 7 consecutive days of access to the park. This is where the Grand Canyon Visitor Center is located along with many amenities, tours, concessionaires, hotels, dining, educational talks, and a free hop-on/hop-off shuttle. This rim has historically been the most popular way to experience Grand Canyon National Park and is open year-round.

Choosing a South Rim Basecamp

When visiting the South Rim, you'll likely want to get accommodations in Tusayan (nearest to the park entrance), Williams (50 miles from GCNP), Flagstaff (79.5 miles from GCNP), or Sedona (114 miles away from GCNP, but with luxury accommodations and is a destination in its own right!)

See All South Rim Hotel & Lodging Options »

North Rim

The North Rim is more remote and is only open May-October due to rough winter conditions. The North Rim offers a beautiful lodge with amazing views, smaller crowds and a more rustic, pristine experience of the Grand Canyon. Amenities are limited, but that's part of the charm, especially for true outdoor enthusiasts. The North Rim calls to hikers and backpacking campers during the summer months, especially since it cooler in temperature than the South Rim.

Choosing a North Rim Basecamp

When visiting the North Rim, consider staying at the Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim, or in the nearby towns of Freedonia or Kanab, UT (72-79 miles from GCNP North Rim. Freedonia and Kanab are well within reach of other national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Staircase Escalante and Canyonlands (also collectively known as part of the Grand Circle). Staying in Lake Powell/Page is 130 miles away from the North Rim, but is a good hub location for seeing Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend as well.)

See All North Rim Hotel & Lodging Options »

West Rim

The West Rim has grown in popularity of the last decade, primarily because of its close proximity to Las Vegas. The West Rim is ran by the Hualapai Tribe and is not part of the "National Park". The West Rim offers a perfect day trip away from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas, yet visitors don't have to forego any of the posh amenities for a day out in nature. Everything from helicopter rides and hummer tours to bus shuttles leave Las Vegas on the clock every day taking city visitors to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, the glass bridge suspended over the edge of the West Rim of Grand Canyon.

Choosing a West Rim Basecamp

When visiting the West Rim, consider getting accommodations in Las Vegas area (125 miles from GC West), Kingman (71 miles from GC West) or Lake Havasu City (130 miles from GC West).

See All West Rim Hotel & Lodging Options »

One or two nights on any rim of the Grand Canyon are plenty for most visitors unless you are hiking or on a river rafting trip. If you plan on staying in the area longer, most visitors find venturing outward for lodging much more enjoyable because it allows them to see more of the Great Southwest. Stay in Flagstaff, Sedona, or even Scottsdale/Phoenix for a South Rim visit, and choose Las Vegas for your vacation hub for a West Rim.

If your life's ambition is to backpack and hike rim-to-rim, take a mule ride or hike down to Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the Canyon, start preparing as soon as possible. Get backcountry camping permits and reserve your campsite well in advance of your trip. Likewise, guided Colorado River rafting trips, ranging in length from 3 to 21 nights will include camping arrangements made by the outfitter, but you'll want to choose Flagstaff or Page/Lake Powell accommodations for your pre-trip stay, and perhaps Tusayan, Williams or Flagstaff lodging for your post-trip nights unless your river outfitter chooses a convenient pick-up/drop-off hotel for you.

But as we know, most of us will experience Grand Canyon in a less adventurous way. Taking a train tour? Stay 1 - 2 nights in Williams near the Grand Canyon Railway station. Taking a air tour to the Grand Canyon Skywalk? Stay in Las Vegas where all flights to the West Rim originate. Taking an helicopter tour of the South Rim? Stay in Tusayan near Grand Canyon Airport. Taking a bus, van or jeep tour? Stay in Las Vegas, Sedona or Scottsdale.

See More Grand Canyon Tours & Attractions »

Also see Things to Do at Grand Canyon to get some ideas on activities and attractions during your visit.


POPULAR GRAND CANYON HOTELS & TOURS

2.5 Acres in the Pines w/ Game Room, Hot Tub, & Space for your family - Flagstaff

Our home is nestled in 2.5 acres of Ponderosa Pines with breathtaking views of Doney Park East ridges & immediate access to hiking/mtn biking. The house is updated with a Gourmet kitchen & all the amenities you might need.

This is the perfect base for all your adventures includi

Our home is nestled in 2.5 acres of Ponderosa Pines with breathtaking views of Doney Park East ridges & immediate access to hiking/mtn biking. The house is updated with a Gourmet kitchen & all the amenities you might need.

This is the perfect base for all your adventures including the Grand Canyon, skiing Snowbowl, hiking, exploring Sedona, visiting Flagstaff/NAU or exploring the attractions. Its 5 bedrooms, 3 baths comfortably accommodate 12 making this house perfect for large groups/families.


Best Grand Canyon Day Tour

Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five million people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professiona
Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five million people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professional guides will make sure you get the most out of your trip. While touring in comfort you will learn about the geology and history of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The day tour includes short walks to some incredible "less-used" outlooks, a looking into some of the areas most impressive historic buildings, and time to browse resident art galleries and gift shops.

Best Western PREMIER Grand Canyon Squire Inn

As the Grand Canyon South Rim's only resort hotel, it is hard to pass up the luxuries you will find when you stay with Best Western Grand Canyon Squire Inn. Our full service hotel offers two restaurants, a sports bar, lounge, barber and beauty shop, fitness center with sauna and Jacuzzi, b
As the Grand Canyon South Rim's only resort hotel, it is hard to pass up the luxuries you will find when you stay with Best Western Grand Canyon Squire Inn. Our full service hotel offers two restaurants, a sports bar, lounge, barber and beauty shop, fitness center with sauna and Jacuzzi, bowling center, and laundry.
7.8
2061 reviews

Grand Canyon Railway

Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or, select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon Natio
Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or, select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon National Park.

Canyon Dave Tours

Here is the essence: we specialize in good times, splendid viewpoints, and entertaining education. You get an in-depth look into the natural science behind the scenes. You take home a thorough knowledge of where you've been and what it looked like. You won't forget your viewpoints and ours
Here is the essence: we specialize in good times, splendid viewpoints, and entertaining education. You get an in-depth look into the natural science behind the scenes. You take home a thorough knowledge of where you've been and what it looked like. You won't forget your viewpoints and ours, and you won't feel that you've missed something and have to come again (unless you want to). Isn't this how you travel?

Self-Guided Driving Tour of Hoover Dam from Las Vegas

Visit the mighty Hoover Dam not as a tourist but as an expert! This self-guided driving tour leads you from either Las Vegas or Arizona to the Hoover Dam and reveals the dramatic story behind its construction along the way. Discover a tale of desperation, high-flying acrobatics, and sheer
Visit the mighty Hoover Dam not as a tourist but as an expert! This self-guided driving tour leads you from either Las Vegas or Arizona to the Hoover Dam and reveals the dramatic story behind its construction along the way. Discover a tale of desperation, high-flying acrobatics, and sheer human ambition as you drive. Then, walk along the dam itself and admire this amazing feat of engineering up close! Listen to over 50 stories that will keep you engaged as you drive to Hoover Dam.

Helicopter Tour of the North Canyon with Optional Hummer Excursion

The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly beautiful, but this helicopter tour of the iconic canyon elevates the views to a whole new level. Soar over Kaibab National Forest and into the Dragon Corridor—the deepest and widest part of the canyon. Upgrade your tour to include a Hummer tour of other

The Grand Canyon is undoubtedly beautiful, but this helicopter tour of the iconic canyon elevates the views to a whole new level. Soar over Kaibab National Forest and into the Dragon Corridor—the deepest and widest part of the canyon. Upgrade your tour to include a Hummer tour of other essential Grand Canyon sights after the ride; your car is waiting for you for a seamless transition.

  • Grand Canyon North Rim helicopter tour
  • Bring your camera for unbeatable views of the canyon
  • A memorable travel experience great for first-time and return visitors alike
  • Upgrade to include a Hummer tour after the helicopter ride

Grand Canyon Getaway

This is the closest private property to the Grand Canyon South Rim! 5bd / 2.5ba home, large property with lots of room to run; 15 min from the Grand Canyon. Enjoy friendly wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and a rustic setting from the comforts of your own vacation home.

SPECIAL OFFER
Papillon Helicopters

Papillon Helicopters

Tour Grand Canyon with the "World's Largest and Most Experienced Helicopter Sightseeing Company!" Only Papillon is a recipient of the 5-star Diamond award and certified to fly both the South and West Rims of the Canyon. Choose from Air Tours departing Grand Canyon or Las Vegas and ground t
Tour Grand Canyon with the "World's Largest and Most Experienced Helicopter Sightseeing Company!" Only Papillon is a recipient of the 5-star Diamond award and certified to fly both the South and West Rims of the Canyon. Choose from Air Tours departing Grand Canyon or Las Vegas and ground tours departing from Scottsdale/Phoenix.

Maverick Helicopter Tours

Maverick Helicopters offers tours of the Grand Canyon South Rim and West Rim with landing options. Maverick brings VIP service to the canyon with climate-controlled helicopters and unobstructed views perfect for sightseeing. They give you an adventure of a lifetime and not just another tou
Maverick Helicopters offers tours of the Grand Canyon South Rim and West Rim with landing options. Maverick brings VIP service to the canyon with climate-controlled helicopters and unobstructed views perfect for sightseeing. They give you an adventure of a lifetime and not just another tour of the Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour

Witness one of the natural wonders of the world in all its glory. The Grand Canyon is so massive, and awe-inspiring that you simply must see it with your own two eyes to truly understand its scale. This value-for-money self-guided tour takes you to all the best vistas and hiking trails. Ex
Witness one of the natural wonders of the world in all its glory. The Grand Canyon is so massive, and awe-inspiring that you simply must see it with your own two eyes to truly understand its scale. This value-for-money self-guided tour takes you to all the best vistas and hiking trails. Explore Grand Canyon at your own pace with over 60 stories laid out on a 45-mile route.
  • Fully Guided Personal Tours
  • Professionally Narrated Stories
  • Tour Valid Forever
  • Works Offline
  • Fun Facts
  • Tour At Your Own Pace
  • Location Aware, Plays Automatically
  • Don’t Miss Any Sightseeing Points
  • No Groups. No Tips

  • Canyon Villa B&B Inn Of Sedona

    Enjoy bedside views of the Red Rocks of Sedona by Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. Sedona bed and breakfast fare includes full gourmet breakfasts, an afternoon appetizer hour, and evening coffee, teas, and dessert. Bask by the solar pool on warm summer days, and stargaze clear evening skies
    Enjoy bedside views of the Red Rocks of Sedona by Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. Sedona bed and breakfast fare includes full gourmet breakfasts, an afternoon appetizer hour, and evening coffee, teas, and dessert. Bask by the solar pool on warm summer days, and stargaze clear evening skies by an outdoor fire as the weather gets cooler.
    9.7
    74 reviews

    Arizona Private Tours

    Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and
    Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and up to 6 guests on a completely customizable tour of Northern Arizona. For majestic private Grand Canyon tours to Verde Valley Wine tours & ghost towns in the Sedona area, we cover it all. Let us create the custom tour of your dreams and know that we want to make this a day that you will remember for the rest of your life.

    Grand Canyon Airlines

    Don't just view the Canyon from the rim when you can fly the Grand Canyon with a legend! Since 1927, Grand Canyon Airlines has been the premier fixed wing provider of scenic Grand Canyon tour flights. Specially patented, exclusive aircraft provide crystal clear viewing with narration in ei
    Don't just view the Canyon from the rim when you can fly the Grand Canyon with a legend! Since 1927, Grand Canyon Airlines has been the premier fixed wing provider of scenic Grand Canyon tour flights. Specially patented, exclusive aircraft provide crystal clear viewing with narration in eight different languages. The classic Grand Discovery Tour is the ultimate Canyon view.

    Raptor Ranch RV Park & Campground

    RAPTOR RANCH Campground is only 20 MINUTES FROM THE SOUTH RIM ENTRANCE!

    We are located close to the Grand Canyon. The campground offers 32 RV Sites, 25+ Tent Sites. FREE Raptor Flight Demonstrations to All Campers! and FREE admission to Bedrock City.

    There is free WiF

    RAPTOR RANCH Campground is only 20 MINUTES FROM THE SOUTH RIM ENTRANCE!

    We are located close to the Grand Canyon. The campground offers 32 RV Sites, 25+ Tent Sites. FREE Raptor Flight Demonstrations to All Campers! and FREE admission to Bedrock City.

    There is free WiFi Available in Lounge & Laundry Room. We have a Grocery Store on Site, Campfire Rings, Firewood Available at the Camp Store, Giftshop, Showers, Snacks, Coffee, and an Overflow Parking.

    Check-In: 1:00 pm, Check-Out: 12:00 pm


    Western River Expeditions

    Discover the Grand Canyon, endless in scenic wonder, rich in Native American history and loaded with fun and adventure, Western River Expeditions' Grand Canyon tours are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Exploring the Grand Canyon by river is an experience unlike any other. Discover hidden
    Discover the Grand Canyon, endless in scenic wonder, rich in Native American history and loaded with fun and adventure, Western River Expeditions' Grand Canyon tours are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Exploring the Grand Canyon by river is an experience unlike any other. Discover hidden waterfalls and paradisiacal side canyons - areas of Grand Canyon National Park that are accessible only by river.

    Grand Canyon Expeditions

    The Grand Canyon is one of the wonders of the world, and what better way to see it than from its heart, on a Colorado river rafting trip? This unique trip down the Grand Canyon ranges from running world-class rapids to hiking and swimming in the side canyons to investigating the remains le
    The Grand Canyon is one of the wonders of the world, and what better way to see it than from its heart, on a Colorado river rafting trip? This unique trip down the Grand Canyon ranges from running world-class rapids to hiking and swimming in the side canyons to investigating the remains left by the first inhabitants of the Grand Canyon. Let our experienced guides show you the wonders of the Grand Canyon. This is not a tour of the Grand Canyon, it's an adventure!

    Grand Canyon South Rim, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend Day Tour from Las Vegas

    This one-day tour covers 3 amazing landscapes in the Grand Circle in just one day based from Las Vegas. In addition to the well-known Grand Canyon, you will visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, where you can witness the stunning features that have been sculpted in this expansive sc

    This one-day tour covers 3 amazing landscapes in the Grand Circle in just one day based from Las Vegas. In addition to the well-known Grand Canyon, you will visit Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend, where you can witness the stunning features that have been sculpted in this expansive scenery.

  • - Grand Canyon National Park, a must-see World Heritage site in the Southwest
  • - Antelope Canyon, a renowned slot canyon whose colors and shapes have captivated photographers from around the world
  • - Horseshoe Bend where you can overlook the winding Colorado River below.
  • On the way back to Las Vegas, we will have a short break in Seligman, a small town on Route 66. This is a nice little stopover where you can enjoy the old American atmosphere.


    Small Group Grand Canyon West Rim Day Trip from Las Vegas

    Explore the West Rim of the Grand Canyon on a full-day tour from Las Vegas. Travel in a comfortable vehicle with a small group, making a short pit stop at the Hoover Dam. At the canyon, you’ll ride a shuttle to two of the park’s most well-known landmarks—Eagle Point and Guano Point—in orde
    Explore the West Rim of the Grand Canyon on a full-day tour from Las Vegas. Travel in a comfortable vehicle with a small group, making a short pit stop at the Hoover Dam. At the canyon, you’ll ride a shuttle to two of the park’s most well-known landmarks—Eagle Point and Guano Point—in order to maximize your time on the ground. Return to the welcome center where you can snag a few souvenirs, then return to Vegas with fantastic photos and new memories. Ask about the add-on “city lights” helicopter as an add-on upon the return.

    Adventure Tour - Grand Canyon West Rim with Skywalk - Leaves from Phoenix

    Experience the majesty of the American Southwest with a full-day, all-inclusive tour to the Grand Canyon by air. Enjoy a round-trip scenic flight from Phoenix, and touch down at the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, site of the Hualapai Reservation. Travel on land to Eagle Point for Native

    Experience the majesty of the American Southwest with a full-day, all-inclusive tour to the Grand Canyon by air. Enjoy a round-trip scenic flight from Phoenix, and touch down at the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, site of the Hualapai Reservation. Travel on land to Eagle Point for Native American cultural performances, sweeping views of the Grand Canyon, lunch on the canyon rim, a helicopter ride to the bottom of the canyon, a boat cruise on the Colorado River and admission to the thrilling Grand Canyon Skywalk.

    • Full-day tour to the Grand Canyon's West Rim by air
    • Enjoy a narrated scenic flight over America’s most famous natural wonder
    • Dare to walk out on the Grand Canyon Skywalk
    • Take a ground tour to Eagle Point to learn about Native American culture Eat lunch at Guano Point, located on the canyon rim
    • Take a helicopter flight down to the Colorado River, followed by a short boat cruise

    Includes plane and helicopter flights, lunch, ground and boat tours, admission fees and guides.


    Signature Tour - Grand Canyon South Rim with Ground Tour from Phoenix

    Marvel at the Grand Canyon's vast expanse and some of the American Southwest's most awe-inspiring terrain during a scenic flight from Phoenix. Your pilot flies at the perfect altitude to clearly view the natural beauty of Arizona, including Tonto National Forest, San Francisco Peaks, Mo

    Marvel at the Grand Canyon's vast expanse and some of the American Southwest's most awe-inspiring terrain during a scenic flight from Phoenix. Your pilot flies at the perfect altitude to clearly view the natural beauty of Arizona, including Tonto National Forest, San Francisco Peaks, Montezuma Well, and the Red Rocks of Sedona. Experience this majestic wilderness from the ground and air on a day-long tour that includes a stop in the National Park and the historic village.

  • Full-day tour of the Grand Canyon by airplane, from Phoenix
  • Soak in spectacular aerial views of the Grand Canyon and other Arizona landmarks
  • Fly over Tonto National Forest, the Red Rocks of Sedona and Montezuma's Well
  • Learn about the wildlife, geology and history of the Grand Canyon and Arizona

  • Grand Canyon National Park Bus Tour from Las Vegas

    Explore the natural side of Arizona with a day trip to the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim on our luxury bus tour. Your professional bus driver is trained to provide you with interesting facts about the history, flora, and fauna on one of the great wonders of the modern world.

    Explore the natural side of Arizona with a day trip to the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim on our luxury bus tour. Your professional bus driver is trained to provide you with interesting facts about the history, flora, and fauna on one of the great wonders of the modern world.

    Once you arrive at the South Rim, enjoy stops along the rim such as Mather Point and Bright Angel Lodge. Explore popular attractions in the Grand Canyon National Park such as El Tovar, Hopi House, Kolb Photo Studio, and the Bright Angel Trail and make memories of a lifetime!


    Hilton Sedona At Bell Rock

    A magical location, stunning landscape with sweeping vistas: Hilton Sedona at Bell Rock is your ideal home for adventure in red rock country. With a recent multi-million dollar renovation our refreshed resort features 221 modern guest rooms and suites, all with fireplace, patio or balcony
    A magical location, stunning landscape with sweeping vistas: Hilton Sedona at Bell Rock is your ideal home for adventure in red rock country. With a recent multi-million dollar renovation our refreshed resort features 221 modern guest rooms and suites, all with fireplace, patio or balcony, and mini kitchenette. Enjoy the full service spa, athletic club with fitness classes, two swimming pools and 18-hole championship golf course.
    8
    451 reviews

    Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views

    Make the most of limited time and see the highlights of Grand Canyon National Park in just a couple of hours on this sightseeing tour. Ride in a windowless, open-air Hummer and listen to commentary from your guide as you visit some of the canyon’s best lookout points, where you can hop

    Make the most of limited time and see the highlights of Grand Canyon National Park in just a couple of hours on this sightseeing tour. Ride in a windowless, open-air Hummer and listen to commentary from your guide as you visit some of the canyon’s best lookout points, where you can hop out, take photos, and explore. Since this is a small-group tour, you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions, too.

    • Visit multiple lookout points within Grand Canyon National Park
    • Enjoy the undivided attention of a private driver/guide
    • Ideal for first-time visitors and those with limited time
    • Choose from multiple departures to best suit your schedule

    North & East Rim Imperial with Ecostar Family Flight

    Recommend for groups of 4+. Take the Imperial Air tour on an aircraft dedicated exclusively for yourself and your family/friends.

    Experience the Grand Canyon aboard a helicopter tour reserved entirely for your party. These helicopters have been designed with ecological impact in mi

    Recommend for groups of 4+. Take the Imperial Air tour on an aircraft dedicated exclusively for yourself and your family/friends.

    Experience the Grand Canyon aboard a helicopter tour reserved entirely for your party. These helicopters have been designed with ecological impact in mind and feature lower noise to minimize disturbance. Set off from the Grand Canyon air terminal for aerial sights of the incredible rock gorges, the Colorado River twisting below, and the forested areas of the North Rim. Enjoy the most environmentally-friendly and exclusive way to tour the Grand Canyon by air!

    MORE WAYS TO EXPLORE GRAND CANYON