Grand Canyon West Rim

The West Rim is THE premier destination for tours originating in Las Vegas, and it offers several singular tour options not available at the South or North Rims: the Grand Canyon Skywalk; helicopter landings in the Inner Canyon; the road you can drive to the bottom; and one-day Colorado River rafting trips. If you have just a half-day to see the West Rim, take a helicopter or air tour from Las Vegas. If you have more time, consider a bus tour with a stop at Hoover Dam. Whatever tour you choose, you'll be required to buy an entrance package to Grand Canyon West; this is often included in tour prices, so check with your tour operator of choice. The best-value and least expensive package that includes a walk on the Skywalk - the highlight of the area - runs about $79.99 per person. Helicopter and air tours start about $250 per person, and bus/coach tours are affordable, typically starting under $120 per person.

Most visitors approach the West Rim from Las Vegas, a 123-mile drive via Highway 93 south over Hoover Dam. Go northeast on Pierce Ferry Road (County Highway 25)to Diamond Bar Road (County Highway 261). Go east on Diamond Bar Rd to Grand Canyon West. From Kingman, go north on Stockton Hill Road to Pierce Ferry Road to Diamond Bar Road. The final 9 miles of Diamond Bar Road are unpaved, and the road ends at Grand Canyon West Airport, the entrance to the West Rim, where you'll buy your entrance package and optional upgrades. Take the mandatory park-and-ride shuttle into Grand Canyon West.