Grand Canyon Trip Planning
Planning Your Grand Canyon Adventure: Key Considerations
The Grand Canyon draws millions of travelers each year, offering a breathtaking landscape that caters to thrill-seekers, casual sightseers, and nature lovers alike. Whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime hike or a relaxing rim stroll, the Grand Canyon has an experience for every kind of traveler.
To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to consider your timing, budget, travel style, and interests. Let’s walk through the major questions that will help you build your perfect Grand Canyon itinerary.
Which Grand Canyon Rim Should You Visit?
There are three main rims you can visit: South Rim, North Rim, and West Rim. A fourth area, sometimes referred to as the "East Rim," includes stunning locations like Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, and Antelope Canyon—part of the greater Colorado Plateau but not within Grand Canyon National Park boundaries.
South Rim: The Classic National Park Experience
- Best For: First-time visitors, families, photographers, casual hikers
- Open: Year-round
- Entrance Fee: $35/vehicle (valid for 7 days) or covered by the America the Beautiful Pass
Amenities:
- Grand Canyon Visitor Center
- Free shuttle bus system
- Lodging, restaurants, ranger talks, and guided tours
South Rim Basecamp Options:
- Tusayan (closest to park entrance)
- Williams (50 miles away; home of the Grand Canyon Railway)
- Flagstaff (79 miles away; offers diverse dining and lodging)
- Sedona (114 miles away; ideal for luxury stays and red rock scenery)
North Rim: Rugged and Remote
- Best For: Solitude seekers, serious hikers, summer visits
- Open: Mid-May through mid-October (weather permitting)
- Vibe: Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, rustic lodge and campgrounds
North Rim Basecamp Options:
- Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim (on-site lodging)
- Fredonia or Kanab, UT (72–79 miles from the rim)
- Page/Lake Powell (130 miles away; great for combining Antelope Canyon or water activities)
West Rim: Skywalk and Day Trips from Las Vegas
- Best For: Day trippers, thrill-seekers, luxury travelers
- Operated By: The Hualapai Tribe (not part of the National Park Service)
Attractions:
- Grand Canyon Skywalk: Glass bridge over the canyon edge
- Helicopter tours, hummer rides, and shuttle tours
West Rim Basecamp Options:
- Las Vegas (125 miles away)
- Kingman, AZ (71 miles away)
- Lake Havasu City (130 miles away)
How Long Should You Stay?
- 1–2 nights are ideal for most visitors to get the highlights of any rim.
- More than 2 nights? Consider using basecamps like Flagstaff, Sedona, or even Scottsdale for broader exploration of the Southwest.
Extended stays are great if you're:
- Hiking rim-to-rim
- Doing a multi-day river rafting trip
- Visiting multiple parks in the Grand Circle (Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, etc.)
What Do You Want To Do at the Grand Canyon?
For Adventurers:
Hiking Rim-to-Rim or down to Phantom Ranch:
- Requires months of planning
- Backcountry permits are mandatory
- Lodging fills up quickly—book well in advance
River Rafting the Colorado River:
- Trips range from 3 to 21 days
- Outfitters often handle permits and campsites
- Pre/post-trip stays in Flagstaff or Page are recommended
For Sightseers:
- Train Tour via Grand Canyon Railway: Stay in Williams
- Air Tours to West Rim Skywalk: Base in Las Vegas
- Helicopter Tour of South Rim: Stay in Tusayan
- Bus, Van, or Jeep Tours: Stay in Las Vegas, Sedona, or Scottsdale
Grand Canyon Itinerary Ideas by Rim
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 Getaway
Family-Friendly | Nearest to GNCP | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Williams Lodging
Private Grand Canyon Hiking Tours
Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Shuttle Services Provided | Hotel Pickup
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
Grand Canyon Expeditions
Professionally Guided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours
Canyon Dave Tours
Private Tours Available | Educational | Lunch Included | Family-Friendly | Family Business | Multi-Attraction Tours | Multi-Day Tours
The Squire at Grand Canyon
Family-Friendly | Outdoor Pool | Pet-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub | On-site Restaurant | ADA Accessible | Nearest to GNCP | Fitness Center
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
Grand Canyon UTV Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Things to Do in Williams
Canyon Villa B&B Inn Of Sedona
Sedona Lodging | Outdoor Pool | Romantic
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 Railway
Family-Friendly | ADA Accessible | Things to Do in Williams | Leaves from Williams
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 | Williams Lodging
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
Papillon Helicopters
Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Tusayan | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly
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
Western River Expeditions
Professionally Guided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours | Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas
Arizona Private Tours
Family-Friendly | Custom Options Available | Leaves from Flagstaff | Multi-Attraction Tours
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
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
Comfortable and Scenic near Grand Canyon - Williams, AZ
Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Williams Lodging | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen
Fun 66 Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Educational
Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly | Additional Tour Options Available
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
Small Group Grand Canyon West Rim Day Trip from Las Vegas
Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup | Breakfast Included | Lunch Included
Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins - Flagstaff
Family-Friendly | Pet-Friendly | Flagstaff Hotels
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
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