Grand Canyon Trip Planning
Planning a Grand Canyon trip starts with one important question: which rim should you visit? The Grand Canyon is not a single-stop destination. The South Rim, North Rim, and Grand Canyon West each offer a very different experience, with different seasons, drive times, lodging options, tours, and entrance requirements.
This guide will help you choose the best Grand Canyon rim for your trip, decide where to stay, estimate how many days you need, and plan the activities that matter most, from scenic viewpoints and family-friendly walks to helicopter tours, river rafting, and rim-to-rim hiking.
Which Grand Canyon Rim Should You Visit?
The three main areas travelers compare are the South Rim, North Rim, and Grand Canyon West. The South Rim is part of Grand Canyon National Park and is the best choice for most first-time visitors. The North Rim is also part of the national park, but it is more remote and typically open seasonally. Grand Canyon West is located on Hualapai tribal land and is best known for the Grand Canyon Skywalk and easy day trips from Las Vegas.
Some travelers also hear the term “East Rim.” This usually refers to the Page and Lake Powell area, including Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Marble Canyon, and Lees Ferry. These places are part of the greater Grand Canyon and Colorado Plateau travel region, but they are not the same as visiting the main developed rims of Grand Canyon National Park.
| Traveler Type | Best Rim | Why |
|---|---|---|
| First-time visitors | South Rim | Classic views, visitor centers, shuttles, lodging, restaurants, and year-round access. |
| Families | South Rim | Easy viewpoints, short walks, ranger programs, and the most visitor services. |
| Las Vegas day trippers | Grand Canyon West | Closest major Grand Canyon destination to Las Vegas and home of the Skywalk. |
| Hikers and solitude seekers | North Rim | Cooler, quieter, more remote, and best during the summer season. |
| Grand Circle road trips | South Rim or North Rim | Good connections to Page, Lake Powell, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, and Flagstaff. |
How Many Days Do You Need at the Grand Canyon?
Most travelers need at least one full day to see the Grand Canyon, but the ideal trip length depends on which rim you visit and how much exploring you want to do.
- Half Day: Works only for a quick viewpoint stop, usually at the South Rim or Grand Canyon West.
- 1 Day: Best for a Grand Canyon West day trip from Las Vegas or a quick South Rim highlights visit.
- 2 Days: Ideal for most South Rim visitors who want scenic viewpoints, a short hike, sunset, and sunrise.
- 3 Days: Best for a relaxed South Rim visit, North Rim getaway, or adding a tour experience.
- 4+ Days: Best for river rafting, rim-to-rim hiking, backpacking, or a larger Southwest road trip.
Most Popular Grand Canyon Activities
- Hiking
- River Rafting
- Helicopter Rides
- Ranger Talks
- Hop-on-Hop-Off Bus Along the Rim
- Small Group Tours in a Van or Jeep
- Exploring the Visitors Center
- Walking the Rim Trail to Different Points of Interest
- Staying at a Lodge in the Park
- Grand Canyon Skywalk
- Hiking to Havasupai Falls
- Riding the Grand Canyon Railway Train
- Camping or Glamping at near the Canyon
Did You Decide On Which Rim to Explore?
If so, EXCELLENT! Now we can move on to getting a better idea of where to stay, things to do, tours, and more!Classic, Accessible, Year-Round
Basecamp: Tusayan, Williams, Flagstaff, or Sedona.
Best For: First-time visitors, families, moderate hikers, scenic lovers
Day 1 – Arrive & Orientation
- Arrive and check into hotel (Tusayan or Williams recommended)
- Stop by Grand Canyon Visitor Center
- Walk the Rim Trail from Mather Point to Yavapai Point
- Watch sunset at Hopi Point or Desert View Watchtower
- Dinner in Tusayan or at El Tovar Restaurant (inside park)
Day 2 – Explore & Adventure
- Sunrise at Yaki Point
- Hike options:
- Easy: Bright Angel Trail to 1.5-Mile Resthouse
- Moderate: South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge
- Visit Grand Canyon Village historic district
- Ride free shuttle to viewpoints on Hermit Road Scenic Drive
- Optional: Helicopter tour from Grand Canyon Airport
- Stargazing or ranger-led program in the evening
Day 3 – Optional Add-Ons
- Take the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams (if based there)
- Explore Desert View Drive and visit the Watchtower
- Visit IMAX Theater in Tusayan
- Depart for Sedona or Page/Lake Powell for extended trip
Rustic, Remote, Summer-Only
Basecamp: Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim, Kanab UT, or Fredonia
Best For: Hikers, serenity seekers, summer visitors
Day 1 – Arrival & Scenic Views
- Check in at your Grand Canyon North Rim Lodging
- Walk the Bright Angel Point Trail (easy, 0.5 miles RT)
- Scenic drive to Cape Royal and Point Imperial
- Do a sunset picnic with canyon views
Day 2 – Hiking & Nature
- Early morning hike to North Kaibab Trail:
- Moderate: To Coconino Overlook (1.5 miles RT)
- Challenging: To Roaring Springs (9.4 miles RT)
- Afternoon: Relax or attend a ranger talk
- Optional: Photography at sunset near Angel’s Window
Day 3 – Connect to the Grand Circle
- Depart for Zion, Bryce Canyon, or Lake Powell
- Stop at Jacob Lake Inn for breakfast or snacks
- Optional detour to Grand Staircase-Escalante
Quick Access from Las Vegas, Adventure-Focused
Basecamp: Las Vegas, Kingman, or Lake Havasu City
Best For: Day trippers, thrill-seekers, helicopter tourists
Day Trip Itinerary from Las Vegas
- Depart Las Vegas by tour bus, helicopter, or self-drive
- Arrive at Grand Canyon West (2–2.5 hr drive)
- Walk the Grand Canyon Skywalk (glass bridge experience)
- Explore Eagle Point and Guano Point
- Add-ons:
- Helicopter ride to the canyon floor
- Pontoon boat ride on the Colorado River
- Lunch at Hualapai Ranch or picnic area
- Return to Las Vegas by evening
POPULAR GRAND CANYON HOTELS & TOURS
Grand Canyon Expeditions
Professionally Guided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours
Maverick Helicopter Tours from Las Vegas
Family-Friendly | Reserve Now Pay Later | Additional Tour Options Available | Leaves from Las Vegas | Optional Ground Tour | Professionally Guided
Canyon Villa B&B Inn Of Sedona
Sedona Lodging | Outdoor Pool | Romantic
The Squire at Grand Canyon, a Holiday Inn Resort
Family-Friendly | Outdoor Pool | Pet-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub | On-site Restaurant | ADA Accessible | Nearest to GNCP | Fitness Center | Outdoor Fireplace/Pit | Games Provided | Games Provided | On-site Restaurant
Arizona Private Tours
Family-Friendly | Custom Options Available | Leaves from Flagstaff | Multi-Attraction Tours
Grand Canyon Getaway
Family-Friendly | Nearest to GNCP | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen
Best Grand Canyon Day Tour
Private Tours Available | Shuttle Services Provided | Lunch Included | Multi-Attraction Tours | Additional Tour Options Available | Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon Airlines
Leaves from Lake Powell/Page | Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Lake Powell/Page | Leaves from Tusayan | Multi-Attraction Tours | Optional Ground Tour | Optional River Tour | Optional Ground Tour
Canyon Dave Tours
Private Tours Available | Educational | Lunch Included | Family-Friendly | Family Business | Multi-Attraction Tours | Multi-Day Tours
Western River Expeditions
Professionally Guided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours | Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas
Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly | Additional Tour Options Available
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale
Marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim during this Grand Canyon Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include a day trip to visit Arizona’s breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, a scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, and several viewpoints at the … More
Marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim during this Grand Canyon Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include a day trip to visit Arizona’s breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, a scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, and several viewpoints at the spectacular Grand Canyon South Rim. Optional "Colors & Canyons" 45-minute helicopter upgrade available.
Professionally Guided | Hotel Pickup | All Fees Included | Family-Friendly | Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale
Maverick Helicopter Tours from GCNP Airport
Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view. … More
Canyon Spirit is a Grand Canyon helicopter tour that departs from the South Rim, taking you over the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, home to the world's largest stand of Ponderosa pines. Upon reaching the edge, the rim drops away as the magnificent Grand Canyon comes into full view.
Leaves from Tusayan | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided
Private Grand Canyon Hiking Tours
Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Shuttle Services Provided | Hotel Pickup
Lake Powell Taxi Services
Backland Luxury Camping
Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fir … More
Take your loved ones on a trip they will never forget. Backland is a luxury eco-resort near the Grand Canyon. Completely surrounded by ponderosa pine forests, our one-of-a-kind tents, chef-prepared meals, and secluded location completely redefine the concept of glamping. Dine by the fire in our glass-walled restaurant, relax with a massage in our tented spa, marvel at the grandeur of the universe through our complimentary telescopes, and take advantage of miles of nearby hiking trails.
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Features:
- Complimentary Breakfast
- Onsite Glass Walled Restaurant
- Onsite and nearby hiking trails
- Close to the Grand Canyon and dozens of local attractions
- Pond with sand beach, fishing, and kayaking
- Snowshoes and sledding onsite when it snows
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Tents feature:
- Panoramic windows
- Huge stargazing skylights over the beds (Skyview tents only)
- Automatic climate control, fully insulated, and energy-efficient
- King-sized beds
- Full en-suite bathroom with showers
- Luxury linens
- Electricity in tents
- Tentside parking + electric vehicle charging at reception
- Private Outdoor patios
- Coffee makers + mini-fridges
- Ecological toiletries + water conservation fixtures
Pet-Friendly | Fireplace(s) | Family-Friendly | Things to Do in Williams | On-site Restaurant | Outdoor Gear Rental Available | Games Provided | Hot Drinks Provied | Eco-Friendly | Spa | Breakfast Included
Peaks & Pines 5-BR House - 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 … More
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.
Flagstaff Hotels | Family-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Fireplace(s) | Games Provided | Family-Friendly
IMAX Grand Canyon National Geographic Visitor Center
Family-Friendly
Trailborn Grand Canyon
Family-Friendly | Hot Tub | Outdoor Pool | On-site Restaurant | Pet-Friendly | Gear Rental Available or Provided | Guided Excursions
Grand Canyon Railway
Family-Friendly | ADA Accessible | Things to Do in Williams | Leaves from Williams
Sedona Red Rock Tours
Multi-Day Tours | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Hotel Pickup | Multi-Attraction Tours | Private Tours Available | Custom Options Available | ADA Accessible
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 … More
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
Optional Ground Tour | Family-Friendly
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 … More
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
Pet-Friendly | Outdoor Fireplace/Pit | BBQ/Grill | Propane Refilling Station | General Store | Shower | Dump Station | Community Restrooms | WiFi | Family-Friendly
Papillon Helicopters
Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Tusayan | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly
Grand Canyon UTV Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Things to Do in Williams
Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock
Sedona Lodging | Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub | Outdoor Pool | On-site Restaurant | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Golf Course | Fitness Center | Wedding Venue
Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins - Flagstaff
Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Flagstaff Hotels
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.
… MoreExplore 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!
Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas
Grand Canyon West, Lunch, Hoover Dam Photo Stop, Optional Skywalk
Visit the West Rim of the Grand Canyon on this full-day tour from Las Vegas. Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, passing by Arizona’s Joshua Tree Forest on the way. At the Grand Canyon West Rim, enjoy four hours of free time to explore highlights like Eagle Point and Guano Point. On t … More
Visit the West Rim of the Grand Canyon on this full-day tour from Las Vegas. Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, passing by Arizona’s Joshua Tree Forest on the way. At the Grand Canyon West Rim, enjoy four hours of free time to explore highlights like Eagle Point and Guano Point. On the way back, stop by the Hoover Dam bridge for photos.
- Full-day tour to the Grand Canyon West Rim from Las Vegas
- Includes lunch, granola bar and bottled water
- Skywalk and helicopter upgrades available
- Round-trip transfers from select Las Vegas hotels
Leaves from Flagstaff | Lunch Included | Multi-Attraction Tours
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 … More
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
Family-Friendly
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 … More
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.
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.
Leaves from Las Vegas | Family-Friendly | Multi-Attraction Tours
Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour from Las Vegas with VIP Skywalk & Pontoon Boat Ride
Book the ultimate Grand Canyon getaway with this combo tour that begins with a helicopter flight from Las Vegas. Get a birds-eye-view of Hoover Dam and the Grapevine Mesa Joshua Trees en route to the West Rim. Then descend to the canyon floor for a pontoon boat cruise on the Colorado Ri … More
Book the ultimate Grand Canyon getaway with this combo tour that begins with a helicopter flight from Las Vegas. Get a birds-eye-view of Hoover Dam and the Grapevine Mesa Joshua Trees en route to the West Rim. Then descend to the canyon floor for a pontoon boat cruise on the Colorado River. Finish with VIP access to the Skywalk, a glass-bottom deck that hovers above the sandstone walls. A souvenir photo and coach transfers are included. ** Please note: Effective for travel prior to April 1, 2024, the price displayed does not include a USD30 per person fuel fee. This fee is payable direct to the supplier on the day of your tour **
- Grand Canyon helicopter combo tour from Las Vegas
- View Hoover Dam and the sandstone canyon walls on a helicopter ride
- Land on the floor of the Grand Canyon Take a pontoon boat cruise along the Colorado River
- Marvel at the breadth of the canyon from the glass-bottom Skywalk at Eagle Point with skip-the-line admission
- Hotel transport and souvenir Skywalk photo included
Leaves from Las Vegas | Multi-Attraction Tours
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 … More
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.
Family-Friendly | Multi-Attraction Tours | Professionally Guided | Educational | Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale
Fun 66 Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Educational
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 … MoreRecommend 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!Family-Friendly