South Rim vs. North Rim – Which Grand Canyon Rim Should You Visit?
Trying to decide between the South Rim and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon? Both rims offer incredible views and unforgettable experiences, but the right choice depends on your travel style, interests, and itinerary. Here's a detailed breakdown of South Rim vs. North Rim to help you choose the best Grand Canyon experience for your trip.
Why Most Visitors Choose the South Rim of the Grand Canyon
The South Rim is the most popular rim of the Grand Canyon, attracting around 5 million visitors annually, compared to just 1 million at the North Rim and 200,000 at the West Rim.
Top Reasons to Visit the South Rim:
- Open year-round
- More lodging and hotel options nearby
- Well-developed infrastructure with visitor centers, shuttle buses, restaurants, and paved paths
- Wide variety of Grand Canyon tours and activities
- Easier to access from major cities like Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Sedona,
- Ideal for first-time visitors and families
- Panoramic views and iconic photo spots like Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View
Whether you're looking for a Grand Canyon hiking experience, a scenic helicopter ride, or a family-friendly day trip, the South Rim offers the most comprehensive visitor experience.
Why Some Prefer the North Rim of the Grand Canyon
If you’re seeking solitude, rugged beauty, and fewer crowds, the North Rim is the best-kept secret of the Grand Canyon. Accessible only from mid-May to mid-October, it’s ideal for those who prefer a more remote and wild adventure.
Top Reasons to Visit the North Rim:
- Far fewer visitors and a peaceful atmosphere
- Higher elevation with cooler temperatures
- Epic hiking trails like North Kaibab Trail and Bright Angel Point
- Unparalleled natural beauty and a sense of seclusion
- Excellent for serious backpackers, campers, and nature lovers
- Seasonal mule rides and river rafting available
Keep in mind that the North Rim is more difficult to reach, with fewer amenities and lodging options. It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a longer drive and are looking for a quiet, immersive outdoor experience.
Final Verdict: Which Rim of the Grand Canyon is Better?
Choose the South Rim if:
- You're a first-time visitor
- You want easy access and more amenities
- You're traveling in winter or early spring
- You want more tour options and ranger programs
Choose the North Rim if:
- You’re visiting between May and October
- You want peace, quiet, and fewer people
- You’re an avid hiker or backpacker
- You’re looking for a rugged, immersive outdoor experience
Still can’t decide? Many travelers eventually visit both rims—but for your first visit to the Grand Canyon, the South Rim is the most convenient and comprehensive option. If you’ve been before or want something off the beaten path, the North Rim offers stunning serenity and wild natural beauty.
The North Rim has been devastatingly damaged due to the Dragon Bravo Fire. Please consider donating to the North Rim Recovery Fund through the Grand Canyon Conservancy.
Briar Patch Inn - Sedona
Briar Patch Inn is the #1 Ranked B&B in AZ since 2011 and has received Trip Advisor's Certificate of Excellence
The Briar Patch Inn features 19 cabins situated on 9 lush acres in Oak Creek Canyon, just 3 miles north of Sedona. Each individual cabin is dressed in
… More
Briar Patch Inn is the #1 Ranked B&B in AZ since 2011 and has received Trip Advisor's Certificate of Excellence
The Briar Patch Inn features 19 cabins situated on 9 lush acres in Oak Creek Canyon, just 3 miles north of Sedona. Each individual cabin is dressed in distinctly different southwestern decor. The lush grounds - home to wildlife, birds, and two resident sheep - showcase rambling walking paths, canyon oaks, giant pines, and sycamores, all providing the perfect setting to nurture your relationship with nature. Healthy, bountiful, homemade breakfasts are offered by the creek in spring and summer and by the lodge fireplaces in fall and winter. An attentive, longtime staff strives to provide a quality of fine service that is the hallmark of this magical sanctuary. A Fodor's Choice and a Frommer's favorite.
Sedona Lodging | Free Hot Breakfast | Family-Friendly | Romantic | Fireplace(s) | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Good for Nature Lovers | Retreat & Workshop Venue | Intimate Wedding Venue | Massage Therapy
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
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
Papillon Helicopters
Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from Tusayan | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly
Pink Jeep Adventure Tours
Family-Friendly
Munds Park RV Resort
Family-Friendly | Flagstaff Hotels | Pet-Friendly | General Store | Laundry | Dump Station | Shower | BBQ/Grill | Fitness Center
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale with Sedona
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup | Professionally Guided | All Fees Included
Grand Canyon Railway
Family-Friendly | ADA Accessible | Things to Do in Williams | Leaves from Williams
Grand Canyon Expeditions
Professionally Guided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours
Private Grand Canyon Hiking Tours
Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Shuttle Services Provided | Hotel Pickup
The Grand Hotel
Nearest to GNCP | On-site Restaurant | Indoor Pool | EV Charging Station
Wildland Trekking
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Shuttle Services Provided | Gear Rental Available or Provided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours
Fun 66 Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Multi-Attraction Tours | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Educational
Oak Creek Terrace Resort - Sedona
Sedona Lodging | Family-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub
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
Canyon Dave Tours
Private Tours Available | Educational | Lunch Included | Family-Friendly | Family Business | Multi-Attraction Tours | Multi-Day Tours
Grand Canyon UTV Tours
Leaves from Williams | Things to Do in Williams | Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Things to Do in 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
Nakai Trail 4-BR A-Frame - Flagstaff
This house is newly listed for rental and is nestled in the Kachina Pines with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest & immediate access to trails. The house is newly updated including the kitchen & all amenities you might need, including alexa music throughout.
This is th … More
This house is newly listed for rental and is nestled in the Kachina Pines with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest & immediate access to trails. The house is newly updated including the kitchen & all amenities you might need, including alexa music throughout.
This is the perfect base for all your adventures including the Grand Canyon, skiing Snowbowl, hiking, exploring Sedona, and visiting Flagstaff/NAU. Its 4 bedrooms, 2 baths comfortably accommodate 12.
Flagstaff Hotels | Family-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Games Provided | Fireplace(s) | Pet-Friendly
Canyon Villa B&B Inn Of Sedona
Sedona Lodging | Outdoor Pool | Romantic
Western River Expeditions
Professionally Guided | Meals Included | Multi-Day Tours | Family-Friendly | Leaves from Las Vegas
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
Grand Canyon Getaway
Family-Friendly | Nearest to GNCP | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Williams Lodging
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
Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend
Spend a day visiting two of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend! Our Lower Antelope Canyon Tours take you into the heart of one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world. Afterwards, we visit the famous Horseshoe Bend, where y … More
Spend a day visiting two of the most iconic landscapes in the American Southwest- Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend! Our Lower Antelope Canyon Tours take you into the heart of one of the most spectacular slot canyons in the world. Afterwards, we visit the famous Horseshoe Bend, where you can peer off the edge at the mighty Colorado River!
Professionally Guided | Multi-Attraction Tours | Multi-Day Tours | Additional Tour Options Available | Private Tours Available | Lunch Included | Shuttle Services Provided
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
Grand Canyon South Rim Self-Guided Driving Tour
Self-Guided | Family-Friendly | Additional Tour Options Available
Mountain Modern
Our recently expanded Sedona hotel has all you need for the ultimate Sedona vacation. From an outdoor heated pool and hot tub to a bike repair station to keep you in tip-top shape, fire pits perfect for congregating, and The Den, o … More
Our recently expanded Sedona hotel has all you need for the ultimate Sedona vacation. From an outdoor heated pool and hot tub to a bike repair station to keep you in tip-top shape, fire pits perfect for congregating, and The Den, offering all day dining options, grab-and-go, and a full bar, we have all you’ll need and then some.
Sedona Lodging | Outdoor Pool | Fireplace(s) | Concierge | Pet-Friendly | Family-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub | Fitness Center
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
Best Grand Canyon Day Tour
Private Tours Available | Shuttle Services Provided | Lunch Included | Multi-Attraction Tours | Additional Tour Options Available | Professionally Guided | Family-Friendly
Sheridan House Inn - Williams
No Children Accommodated | Romantic | Custom Options Available | Breakfast Included | Optional Intimate Personal Chef Cooked Dinners | Private Porch or Balcony | Hot Tub | Award-Winning | Williams Lodging
The Squire at Grand Canyon
Family-Friendly | Outdoor Pool | Pet-Friendly | Whirlpool Tub | On-site Restaurant | ADA Accessible | Nearest to GNCP | Fitness Center
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
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
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
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 Plaza Hotel
Pet-Friendly | On-site Restaurant | Hotel Bar | Airport Shuttle | Hotel Bar
Canyon Plaza Premier Studio and Apartments
Pet-Friendly | Kitchenette or Full Kitchen | Family-Friendly | Swimming Pool | On-site Restaurant
From Phoenix-Small-Group Full Day Tour in Sedona and Grand Canyon
Explore one of the Seven Wonders of the World with a small group and your expert tour guide. You will see all the most scenic lookout points of this natural wonder. This is a small group tour to ensure the most personalized experience.
Visit two of Arizona’s most impressive natur … More
Explore one of the Seven Wonders of the World with a small group and your expert tour guide. You will see all the most scenic lookout points of this natural wonder. This is a small group tour to ensure the most personalized experience.
Visit two of Arizona’s most impressive natural wonders in one day—the mighty Grand Canyon and Bell Rock in Sedona. On this full-day tour, enjoy a personalized experience with small group size and free time to explore both sites. In Sedona, visit Bell Rock Vista, the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and the uptown shopping area, then continue to the Grand Canyon South Rim and take in the views from Grand Canyon Village and Yavapai Point. Magnificent views of the Grand Canyon and Bell Rock Up to three hours in the Grand Canyon National Park Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop off.
This tour will have a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 5 travelers.
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided | Hotel Pickup
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
Custom Grand Canyon Day Trip from Phoenix
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Family-Friendly | Hotel Pickup | All Fees Included | Professionally Guided
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 and Sedona Day Adventure from Scottsdale or Phoenix
Make the most of your time in Arizona with a full-day tour that visits both the Grand Canyon and Sedona. Depart early from Scottsdale or Phoenix to explore the south rim of the Grand Canyon, taking in two prime viewpoints and strolling along the rim, then eating lunch. Continue to Sedon … More
Make the most of your time in Arizona with a full-day tour that visits both the Grand Canyon and Sedona. Depart early from Scottsdale or Phoenix to explore the south rim of the Grand Canyon, taking in two prime viewpoints and strolling along the rim, then eating lunch. Continue to Sedona where you check out the uptown district, and get photo ops at red rock sites.
Leaves from Phoenix/Scottsdale | Custom Options Available | Hotel Pickup | All Fees Included | Professionally Guided | Lunch Included | Family-Friendly | Educational
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