As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon inspires awe with its sheer size and natural beauty. Carved over millions of years by the Colorado River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site plunges a mile deep and stretches 277 miles across northern Arizona.
From scenic overlooks to rugged hikes, the canyon offers countless ways to experience its majestic rock layers, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking vistas. Its immensity and geology reveal the powerful forces that shaped the Southwest.
This guide covers the top sites and activities for exploring Arizona’s crown jewel and one of America’s most treasured national parks. Discover the grandeur of the Grand Canyon for yourself.
Take It All In at Grand Canyon Village
Perched right on the South Rim, Grand Canyon Village provides easy access to premier canyon viewpoints. Snap photos at Mather Point’s sweeping vista or peer over the edge from the historic Kolb Studio. Hop on the free shuttle running through the village to sites like Yavapai Point’s observation area. Check out exhibits at the visitor center and wander tree-lined Rim Trail to soak up different canyon perspectives.
Venture Below the Rim on the Bright Angel Trail
For an unforgettable canyon experience, hike a portion of the iconic Bright Angel Trail down into the canyon. The steep trail has water stops, shade shelters, and composting toilets at regular intervals. Go as far as you feel comfortable – even a short segment will provide an awesome below-the-rim view. Time it so you hike down in the cool morning and up in the afternoon.
Gaze Out from Yaki Point’s Secluded Overlook
Escape the crowds with a stop at Yaki Point, perched on the South Rim 5 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. Drink in panoramic views of the canyon’s southeastern curve and the Colorado River winding below. Keep an eye out for rafters winding through the rapids. Nearby stopping points include Shoshone Point’s peaceful picnic area and Grandview Point’s unobstructed vistas.
Unwind at Historic El Tovar Hotel
After a day of canyon explorations, unwind with a drink on the back porch of El Tovar Hotel. Opened in 1905 on the South Rim, this National Historic Landmark exudes rustic charm with its dark-wood lobby and dining room. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in the cozy restaurant and rest up in one of the historic suites. Outside, relax in a rocking chair overlooking the canyon’s edge.
Photograph Desert View Watchtower’s Vistas
Designed by renowned architect Mary Colter, the Desert View Watchtower provides sweeping views of the canyon’s eastern stretch. Snap photos of the San Francisco Peaks from the top of the 70-foot stone tower modeled after Ancestral Puebloan ruins. Across the way, take in the commanding panorama of the canyon from the general store’s back porch.
Bike Along Hermit Road
For a fun and active way to survey canyon views, ride a bike along the 7-mile Hermit Road that hugs the rim on the South Rim. The road closes to vehicles March through November, leaving it free for cyclists to pedal between scenic points like Powell and Hopi Points. Rent bikes by the visitor center and leisurely make stops for photos along this flat, paved route.
Spot Wildlife on a Desert View Drive
Cruising the 25-mile Desert View Drive reveals changing canyon perspectives culminating with Desert View’s spectacular vantage point. But keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings like elk grazing near the road and California condors soaring over the cliffs. Pull over at Grandview Point to spot hardy desert bighorn sheep navigating steep trails. Early morning and dusk offer the best animal viewing.
Raft Down the Colorado River
Get an adrenaline rush rafting through the canyon’s whitewater rapids with a motorized or oar-powered raft trip. Depart from Page, Arizona for all-day adventures riding Class IV rapids and floating through serene sections while your guides point out canyon highlights. Camping packages allow you to sleep under stars on the canyon floor after thrilling river adventures.
Gaze at the Stars from Grand Canyon National Park
After sunset when crowds thin, look up at the park’s superlative starry skies. Join a ranger program like the astronomy hike to telescope viewing at Shoshone Point. In summer, sign up for the popular Phantom Ranch star party to stargaze 2,000 feet below the rim. Or simply spread out a blanket to pick out constellations overhead in one of the world’s first International Dark Sky Parks.
The Southwest’s most astounding landscape unveils new surprises from every overlook, trail, and river bend. Use this guide to plan your perfect itinerary for witnessing sunrises, sunsets, and everything in between at the sensational Grand Canyon. Its immense beauty and grandeur cannot be overstated – this natural wonder must be seen to be believed.
