Grand Canyon

About Grand Canyon

The South Rim is open year-round and holds most of the viewpoints and lodging. The North Rim is quieter, higher, and closed in winter. Most visitors come from Las Vegas or Phoenix.

• South Rim Helicopter TourTusayan, ArizonaA 25 to 50 minute flight over the widest and deepest sections of the canyon, departing from Grand Canyon Airport in Tusayan.
• Grand Canyon South RimGrand Canyon Village, AZThe classic canyon viewpoints — Mather Point, Yavapai and Desert View — open all year with shuttle access.
• Bright Angel TrailSouth Rim, Grand Canyon VillageThe most maintained trail below the rim, with resthouses at 1.5 and 3 miles. Going down is optional; coming up is mandatory.
• Grand Canyon Helicopter ToursMultiple departure pointsAir tours over the canyon and Colorado River, departing from Las Vegas, Boulder City and Tusayan.

Suggested itinerary

1. Day 1

   South Rim

   Mather Point sunrise, Rim Trail, Desert View Drive.

2. Day 2

   Below the rim

   Bright Angel Trail to 1.5-mile resthouse, or a helicopter tour.

Good with family

• Junior Ranger program
• Desert View Watchtower
• Mule rides along the rim

Travel tips

• Book in-park lodging 12 months ahead
• Rim-to-river hikes are not day hikes — do not attempt in summer
• Sunrise at Mather Point is worth the early alarm