The Grand Canyon is one of those places that photographs cannot prepare you for. Standing at the rim and looking down into a mile-deep chasm carved over five million years by the Colorado River, the scale simply defies comprehension. It's one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and arguably the most spectacular landscape in the United States. A visit to the Grand Canyon is a humbling, awe-inspiring, and unforgettable experience.
South Rim vs. North Rim
The South Rim is the most accessible and most visited part of the park, open year-round with full services, lodging, and a free shuttle system. The views from Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and the Desert View Watchtower at the eastern end of the South Rim are extraordinary. The North Rim is open mid-May through mid-October, sits 1,000 feet higher than the South Rim, and receives far fewer visitors — the views from Cape Royal and Point Imperial are spectacular and less crowded.
Hiking the Grand Canyon
The canyon rewards hikers of every level. The Rim Trail along the South Rim is mostly flat and paved and offers spectacular views for 13 miles. For those who want to hike into the canyon, the Bright Angel Trail is the most popular and well-maintained inner canyon trail — hike down to the 3-Mile Resthouse for a rewarding half-day hike, or continue to Indian Garden for a full-day adventure. Never hike to the river and back in a single day — the National Park Service strongly advises against it, and rangers perform rescues of overconfident hikers every year.
For the ultimate Grand Canyon experience, consider a rim-to-rim hike or a multi-day rafting trip on the Colorado River through the canyon.
What to Pack for the Grand Canyon
Hydration is the number one priority at the Grand Canyon — bring far more water than you think you need, especially in summer when temperatures below the rim can exceed 110°F. Pack layers for the rim (temperatures are significantly cooler at elevation), sun protection, and sturdy hiking boots with ankle support. The VacationGrabs Big Outdoor Leather Backpack is an excellent day pack for canyon hikes. For the road trip or hotel stay, the VacationGrabs Large Leather Travel Duffel handles everything you need for a multi-day canyon adventure.
Book Grand Canyon Tours and Experiences
Helicopter tours over the canyon, mule rides to the canyon floor, whitewater rafting on the Colorado, and guided rim walks are among the most spectacular experiences available at any national park. Browse Grand Canyon tours on Viator to make the most of your visit.
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