If this is your first time visiting Grand Canyon National Park, then you may be finding planning your trip there a little overwhelming. It’s not uncommon for a Grand Canyon first time visitor to feel that way.
Which is why I’ve compiled my top Grand Canyon travel tips.
I’m James Ian and I’m a national park expert. After several trips there, I’m happy to share these travel tips for Grand Canyon National Park with you.
If you are planning to visit Grand Canyon National Park by yourself, make your planning easy and stress free with a detailed itinerary. I have 1-, 2- and 3-day Deluxe Itineraries for the South Rim and a 1-2-Day Basic Itinerary for the North Rim that include all the park highlights, give you choices based on your preferred activity level, and take all the stress out of planning your trip.
Check out the three Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim) itinerary options and the 1-2 Day North Rim Itinerary
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1. Don’t Underestimate the Summer Heat
When visiting Grand Canyon National Park during the summer months, the intense heat can be more than just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous, especially at the bottom of the canyon where temperatures can be intense. It can be more than 20 degrees higher at the bottom of the canyon! In fact, an average of 13 people die every year in the Grand Canyon – and many of those deaths are heat-related.
Carry plenty of water with you to stay hydrated throughout the day. The dry desert air can dehydrate you faster than you might expect, so keep drinking even if you don’t feel thirsty. And eat lots of salty snacks to help replace the salt that you’ll sweat out. If you’re hiking below the rim, take electrolyte replacements. I use these LMNT electrolytes.
Alongside hydration and electrolytes, make sure you have sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
2. Utilize the Free Shuttle Buses
Getting around most of the South Rim is easy with the park’s free shuttle bus system.
These buses are a convenient way to explore without the hassle of parking and driving, which can be especially helpful during peak tourist seasons when parking spaces are as rare as a quiet moment at Mather Point.
The shuttle routes connect the most popular viewpoints and amenities, so you can hop on and off as you please. This service not only eases your visit but also helps reduce traffic and the park’s environmental footprint.
3. Visit Multiple Viewpoints
With over 50 viewpoints scattered along the rim, each offers a unique vista of the Grand Canyon’s breathtaking landscape.
From the popular Yavapai Point to the lesser-known Shoshone Point, every angle provides a fresh perspective. Dedicate time to visit several and don’t rush; sit down and immerse yourself in the grandeur. These moments of reflection amidst such awe-inspiring scenery will likely be the memories you treasure most.
See all the best views at the South Rim
4. See the Canyon at Different Times of the Day
Just as seeing the canyon from different viewpoints gives different perspectives, so does seeing it at different times of day.
Sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful. The interplay of light and shadows continually alters the appearance of the canyon, revealing layers and contours you may not have noticed before. Sit down, relax, and enjoy the splendor of nature at is very best.
5. Hike Below the Rim
Descending below the rim of the Grand Canyon offers a completely different experience from viewing it from above.
There are three main trails: the Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail, and North Kaibab Trail. Each has its own advantage.
The views from South Kaibab Trail are arguably the best, but it’s the steepest trail and has no water. If nothing else, try to make it to the well-named Ooh Aah Point.
Bright Angel Trail is the most popular – the trailhead is in Grand Canyon Village and there are rest houses and water stations along the way. Read my full guide to the Bright Angel Trail.
The North Kaibab Trail goes from the North Rim to the river – it is the longest and hardest to get to.
Even a short hike below the rim can give you a taste of the canyon’s immense depth and grandeur. You don’t need to trek all the way to the bottom to appreciate the canyon from within; just venturing a little way down can provide a new perspective and a sense of the canyon’s scale.
Remember, that going down is optional; going up isn’t. Hiking back up is more challenging, so pace yourself and start early. The NPS advises avoiding hiking between 10:00AM and 4:00PM in summer.
You can also stay at the bottom of the canyon. There are a couple of backcountry campgrounds and Phantom Ranch has cabins and hiker dorms. Find out all you need to know about getting a coveted reservation for Phantom Ranch.
6. Explore Grand Canyon Village and Its Historic Buildings
Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim is not only a hub for visitors but also a historic site with buildings dating back to the early 20th century.
Don’t miss the iconic El Tovar Hotel, the rustic Bright Angel Lodge (be sure to check out the famous Geologic Fireplace), and the historic train depot. Other highlights are Hopi House and Kolb Studio.
These structures offer a glimpse into the park’s past and are an essential part of the Grand Canyon experience. Each building tells a story, and you’ll find that their charm adds another layer to your visit.
These are just some of the things to do at Grand Canyon’s South Rim – see more things to do here.
7. Hike the Trail of Time and Visit the Yavapai Geology Museum
To truly appreciate the Grand Canyon, understanding its geological history is key.
The Trail of Time is an interpretive walking trail that spans 2.83 miles along the rim, with exhibits that guide you through the canyon’s 2 billion years of geologic history.
Complement this hike with a stop at the Yavapai Geology Museum, where you can learn about the forces that shaped this natural wonder. The museum’s large windows offer one of the best indoor views of the canyon, making it a perfect place to learn and gaze out at the same time. See if you can find Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon!
8. Drive to Desert View for a Different Perspective
A trip to the Desert View Watchtower, located 25 miles to the east of Grand Canyon Village, provides a panoramic perspective that is distinct from other viewpoints. The watchtower itself is an impressive structure, designed by architect Mary Colter, and features Native American artistry. From this vantage point, you can see the Colorado River make a dramatic turn to the west and even catch a glimpse of the Painted Desert in the distance.
Note that you need your own vehicle to get there; the shuttle does not go all the way there. And you’ll need to climb 85 steps to get to the top.
9. Take a Mule Ride
For a unique canyon experience, consider booking a mule ride. These sure-footed animals have been part of the Grand Canyon’s history for over a century.
There are options for different skill levels, including a shorter trip through the ponderosa pine forest leading to a stunning lookout. If you’re not accustomed to riding, you’ll appreciate the shorter duration as it can be quite a workout for your muscles. I was aching after about half an hour and glad the ride was relatively short.
However, if you’re used to riding, there are longer trips that go further into the canyon all the way down to Phantom Ranch at the bottom. Note that although they may seem an easier alternative to hiking, they actually require more stamina (and different muscles).
Whichever mule ride you choose, you’re in for an adventure that offers a unique perspective and a deeper connection with the park’s history and landscape.
10. Book Accommodations Well in Advance
If you’re planning to stay overnight within the park, make your reservations as early as possible. Accommodation options at the Grand Canyon can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. Lodging reservations can typically be made up to 13 months in advance.
For those seeking a truly immersive experience, consider staying at Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon. Keep in mind that Phantom Ranch accommodations are in high demand and are allocated via a lottery system 15 months in advance.
11. Stop by the Grand Canyon Visitor Center
Your first stop at the South Rim should be the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. You’ll find tons of information, including maps, exhibits, and park publications that will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the park.
Park rangers are on hand to answer questions and provide recommendations based on your interests and the time you have available.
It’s also a great spot to watch the park’s introductory film, which offers a concise overview of the canyon’s natural and cultural history.
12. Ride the Colorado River Through the Canyon
If you have the time and adventurous spirit, take a rafting trip on the Colorado River. It’s an exhilarating way to experience the Grand Canyon from a different vantage point.
These trips take several days and offer a mix of calm waters and thrilling rapids. There are options for half the canyon or the full canyon.
There are several different options – motorized rafts (quicker and gentler); regular rafts; and wooden dories.
You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the power of the river that carved this magnificent landscape over millions of years. For me, this is THE highlight of a visit to the Grand Canyon!
Learn all about the different options for rafting through the Grand Canyon.
13. Visit the North Rim for a Quieter Experience
While the South Rim is the most visited section of the park, the North Rim offers a more secluded and tranquil experience.
It’s open seasonally from mid-May to mid-October and receives a fraction of the South Rim’s visitors. In fact, only about 10% of visitors to Grand Canyon National Park make it to the North Rim. And the higher elevation results in cooler temperatures and lush vegetation.
With its own unique viewpoints and trails, the North Rim is well worth the visit for those looking to escape the crowds and experience a different side of the Grand Canyon.
Get my 1-2 Day North Rim Itinerary to help plan your trip.
14. Be Mindful of the Altitude
The South Rim sits at an elevation of about 7,000 feet (2,134 meters) – and the North Rim is almost 1,000 feet higher. This altitude can affect visitors who are not accustomed to higher altitudes.
The main things you can do is to stay hydrated, eat snacks to maintain your energy levels, and give yourself time to acclimate to prevent altitude sickness. Take it easy on your first day, especially if you plan on doing any hiking or physical activity.
15. Use My Detailed Itineraries
Planning a trip to the Grand Canyon can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve created detailed Deluxe Itineraries for 1-day, 2-day, and 3-day visits to the South Rim and a 1-2-day Basic Itinerary for the North Rim, that do all the heavy lifting for you. These itineraries are tailored to different activity levels and include hour-by-hour plans, tips for visiting, important information, hike descriptions, driving directions, and shuttle stop information.
They’re designed to help you maximize your time and ensure you don’t miss any of the highlights or hidden gems of the park.
Purchasing one of these itineraries means you can enjoy your trip without the stress of planning every detail. Whether you’re looking for adventure, tranquility, or a bit of both, these guides offer a structured yet flexible approach to exploring the Grand Canyon.
With these itineraries in hand, you’ll have more time to focus on the breathtaking views and less on the logistics of your visit.
Check out the three Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim) itinerary options and the 1-2 Day North Rim Itinerary
Enjoy your trip to Grand Canyon National Park!
Do you have any other tips for tips for visiting the Grand Canyon National Park? I’d love to hear about them. Join my private Facebook group National Parks Collectors and comment and let me know (you can also pick up extra planning tips, share your photos and stories with other national park lovers and more).
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About the Author
James Ian is a national park, camping and hiking expert.
He has dedicated his life to travel, visiting more than 80 countries, all 7 continents and most of the national parks in the United States. With over 35 years experience in the travel industry, James has worked on cruise ships, at resorts and hotels, and as a travel planner who’s helped hundreds of people plan successful trips to US national parks.
Based on his experience visiting our national parks multiple times, in-depth research and expertise as a travel planner, James has published detailed itineraries for most of the major national parks in the US. These itineraries, as well as in-depth park guides, comprehensive camping and hiking gear reviews and buying guides, and helpful packing lists and gift guides will help you have your own incredible trip to US national parks without stress and hassle.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including USA Today, Time Business News, Savoteur, Best Trip, and Wired.
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