Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon is the second most visited national park in the United States-- and for good reason! It is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Whether or not you want to hike or simply admire the views, the Grand Canyon has something for everyone.
About the Grand Canyon
Located in Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park encompasses 277 miles and is home to the Grand Canyon itself. The world famous canyon is a mile deep and 18 miles wide at its widest point. Nearly two billion years of geological history have been exposed in the gorge, as the Colorado River cut its way through the rock revealing layers upon layers of striking colors. Established as a national park in 1919 by Theodore Roosevelt, it is home to almost 6 million visitors every year who marvel at its gorges, ridges, rock formations, and colors.
How to Get There
The Grand Canyon sits about four hours east of Las Vegas and about 3.5 hours north of Phoenix. From Las Vegas, take I-11 south to US-93 south. From there, catch I-40 east to AZ-64 north straight to the park entrance. From Phoenix, take I-17 north to I-40 west, then catch AZ-64 north.
What To Do
There is plenty to do at the Grand Canyon to keep you occupied for days! We just spent one day there, so a shorter trip is definitely doable. From viewpoints to hikes, here are our recommendations:
Yavapai Point-- This viewpoint is inside of Grand Canyon village, the most popular entryway to the park. It's one of the best places to view the park, so get there early to beat the crowds!
Rim Trail-- On the South Rim, the Rim Trail is the most popular and comprehensive trails in the Grand Canyon. It's easy to walk and safe for all people to use, including children and the elderly. It will take you along popular viewpoints like Maricopa Point and Hope Point. It is one of the only trails dogs are allowed on.
North Rim-- The North Rim is more isolated and rugged than the South Rim, which is great if you're looking for a less crowded spot to take in the canyon.
Bright Angel Trail-- This steep, 6 mile one-way trail is a great way to get into the canyon. Taking the trek in one day is challenging, so it's recommended to camp overnight if you're going to Plateau Point. You can also take the trail by mule.
North Kaibab Trail-- On the North Rim, this trail is one of the best hikes. It will lead you along stunning views all the way to the Colorado River.
Havasu Falls-- This desert oasis is one of the most beautiful sights in the Grand Canyon. The falls are just outside of the National Park and fall on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. To get there, you have to hike about 10 miles starting at the Hualapai Hilltop. It's necessary to camp overnight,as the hike is too strenuous to do in one day. It requires a permit, which can be obtained here. The tribe issues permits for a minimum duration of 3 nights at about $100/night. (Note: It is difficult to get permits and often sell out for the year by February. Be sure to plan ahead!)
Where to Camp
There are several campgrounds within the park itself. On the South Rim, Mather Campground and Trailer Village (with RV hookups) are great options that accept reservations. Desert View Campground is also an option, but it is first come first serve. On the North Rim, the North Rim Campground is your best bet. Reservations are accepted, but it is only open May through October. You can see all campgrounds here.
You can also camp in the surrounding areas. We stayed about 20 minutes away from Grand Canyon Village at a site we booked through HipCamp. The cost was $30/night, which is comparable to other campgrounds in and around the park.
If you'd like nicer lodgings, there are several hotels in Grand Canyon Village. Grand Canyon National Park Lodges, El Tovar Hotel, and Yavapai Lodge are great options if you have a larger budger. You can view all hotel options here.
Costs and Fees
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is $35 per vehicle (read: not per person). If you plan on visiting multiple parks, we recommend buying the America the Beautiful annual park pass for just $80. If you visit just 3 parks in the year it pays for itself, and you're able to visit unlimited parks and re-enter as many times as you want.
Camping fees: The average cost of a campsite is about $30/night. Be sure to check in advance, plan ahead, and make a reservation if you can.
Tips and Tricks
Utilize the National Park website to get the latest updates and help plan your visit.
Bring in any food and water you want. While Grand Canyon Village has plenty of options for food and drink, it's always good to be prepared. Plan for extreme heat in the summer and bring extra water.
Check the weather before you go. The best times to visit are March through May and September through November when daytime temperatures are cool. Before June is best, when rainfall is low, crowds are thin, and temperatures haven't reached their scorching summer peak of 85°F and higher. Temperatures can drop below 40°F at night, and even colder on the North Rim, so bringing layers is recommended.
Leave everything better than you found it. Clean up after yourself your pets, and follow the Leave No Trace principle.
Most importantly: Enjoy one of the gems that makes the United States great.
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