Things to Do in Grand Canyon, United States of America

The Grand Canyon stands as one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years in northern Arizona. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stretches 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and plunges more than a mile deep, revealing layers of geological history that span nearly two billion years. The canyon's immense scale and breathtaking beauty attract over six million visitors annually, offering everything from casual rim walks to challenging backcountry adventures. The Grand Canyon is divided into two main areas: the South Rim, which remains open year-round and offers the most accessible viewpoints and visitor services, and the North Rim, which provides a more remote and less crowded experience but closes during winter months due to snow. Whether you're seeking a peaceful sunrise over the canyon, an adrenaline-pumping river rafting expedition, or a challenging hike to the canyon floor, this natural masterpiece offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.

Top Things to Do in Grand Canyon

Helicopter Tours

Experience the Grand Canyon's immense scale and beauty from above with a helicopter tour that provides unparalleled aerial views of the canyon's layered rock formations, the winding Colorado River, and remote areas inaccessible by foot. These tours range from 25-minute rim flights to full-day adventures that include landings on the canyon floor or at scenic overlooks.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $200-800 depending on duration and route. Book morning flights for the best lighting and weather conditions. Look for operators with excellent safety records and choose tours that include both South and North Rim views for the most comprehensive experience.

Hiking Adventures

Explore the Grand Canyon's depths through its extensive trail system, from easy rim walks suitable for all fitness levels to challenging multi-day backpacking trips to the Colorado River. Popular trails include the Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail, and the easier Rim Trail that offers stunning viewpoints without steep descents.

Booking Tip: Day hikes are free, but overnight camping requires permits ($10 plus fees) booked months in advance. Start early to avoid heat and crowds, bring plenty of water (1 gallon per person per day), and remember that hiking back up takes twice as long as going down.

Colorado River Rafting

Navigate the legendary Colorado River through the heart of the Grand Canyon on multi-day rafting expeditions that combine thrilling whitewater rapids with peaceful floats past towering canyon walls. These trips offer a unique perspective of the canyon from below and include camping under star-filled skies on sandy beaches.

Booking Tip: Full canyon trips (14-18 days) cost $3,000-5,000 and book up to 2 years in advance. Shorter 3-7 day trips are available for $1,500-2,500. Choose between motorized rafts (faster) or oar-powered boats (more traditional). Book through authorized concessionaires only.

Scenic Train Rides

Journey to the Grand Canyon aboard the historic Grand Canyon Railway, a vintage train that travels 65 miles from Williams, Arizona to the South Rim through high desert and pine forests. The train features restored early 20th-century cars with entertaining Wild West characters and musicians providing onboard entertainment.

Booking Tip: Tickets range from $75-200 depending on class of service. Book the Luxury Dome or Luxury Parlor cars for the best views and amenities. The train runs year-round with special themed rides during holidays. Consider staying overnight at the Grand Canyon to maximize your visit.

Skywalk Experience

Walk on the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk, a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that extends 70 feet over the canyon rim, offering heart-stopping views straight down to the canyon floor 4,000 feet below. Located at Grand Canyon West on the Hualapai Reservation, this engineering marvel provides a unique perspective and photo opportunity.

Booking Tip: Admission packages start at $50-80 and must be purchased in advance online. Personal cameras aren't allowed on the Skywalk, but professional photos are available for purchase. The site is 2.5 hours from Las Vegas and includes shuttle transportation between viewpoints.

Getting There

The South Rim is accessible year-round via Highway 64 from Flagstaff (80 miles) or Williams (60 miles), both served by Interstate 40. The nearest major airports are Flagstaff (1 hour drive) and Phoenix Sky Harbor (3.5 hours). Las Vegas McCarran Airport is 4.5 hours away but offers numerous tour options. The Grand Canyon Railway provides scenic transportation from Williams, while shuttle services operate from Flagstaff and Phoenix. The North Rim requires a 5-hour drive from the South Rim and is only accessible from mid-May to mid-October due to snow closures.

Getting Around

The South Rim offers free shuttle buses that connect major viewpoints, visitor centers, and lodges, operating year-round with extended hours during peak season. The Village Route serves the Grand Canyon Village area, while the Kaibab/Rim Route provides access to viewpoints along the South Rim. Private vehicles are allowed but parking is extremely limited, especially during peak season. The North Rim has limited shuttle service, making a personal vehicle more necessary. Bicycles are permitted on rim trails and provide an eco-friendly alternative for exploring the area.

Where to Stay

Grand Canyon Village (South Rim)

Tusayan

Williams

Flagstaff

Grand Canyon North Rim

Marble Canyon

Food & Dining

Dining options within the park range from casual cafeterias to upscale restaurants, with El Tovar Dining Room offering fine dining with canyon views and the Bright Angel Restaurant providing family-friendly meals. The Canyon Village Marketplace offers groceries and quick snacks, while the Desert View Trading Post serves Native American-inspired cuisine. Outside the park, Tusayan features chain restaurants and local eateries, while Williams and Flagstaff offer diverse dining scenes including Southwestern cuisine, steakhouses, and international options. Pack plenty of snacks and water for hiking, as food services are limited on trails and at remote viewpoints.

When to Visit

The South Rim is spectacular year-round, but spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable weather with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer brings peak visitation and temperatures over 100°F at the bottom, though the rim remains pleasant. Winter offers a magical snow-covered landscape with crisp, clear views, but some services may be limited. The North Rim is only open mid-May through mid-October, with peak season in summer. For the best photography, visit during golden hour at sunrise or sunset when the canyon walls glow with warm light.

Insider Tips

Purchase an America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) if visiting multiple national parks, as it pays for itself with just two park visits

Stay hydrated and bring more water than you think you need - the dry desert air and high elevation can cause rapid dehydration

Book accommodations and dining reservations well in advance, especially for in-park lodging which can fill up a year ahead for peak season dates

Things to Do in Grand Canyon