A Guide To Exploring The Grand Canyon
Tips on what to do, where to stay, and when to go
If you’re alive and breathing, chances are you’ve not only heard but also have seen the beautiful pictures of the Grand Canyon—one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Come check out all this park has to offer from breathtaking views to a wide range of fun activities.
GENERAL INFORMATION
This national park is located within Arizona and is divided between the South Rim and the North Rim. The South Rim is open year round and encompasses Grand Canyon Village and Desert View. The North Rim is accessible from May through October, and it’s visited by a small 10% of tourists.
RECOMMENDED CAMPGROUNDS
MATHER CAMPGROUND, SOUTH RIM
Head to this year-round site if you prefer being at the center of all activities. It’s easily the most popular site in the South Rim. Enjoy easy access to the various restaurants, shops, and beautiful sights offered by the Grand Canyon. This site provides tent and RV camping, and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, but reservations are recommended during March through mid-November. $18/night and group sites are $50/night.
NORTH RIM CAMPGROUND
This site is considered the best campground in all of the Grand Canyon. Head over to campsites 11, 14, 15, 16, and 18 to get the best sights of the canyon. Insider tip: head to site 14 for a perfect view of the sunset. Open from May through October on a reservation basis. $18-$27/night and group sites are $50/night.
ACTIVITIES IN GRAND CANYON
- Hiking. Head over to Bright Angel Point Trail in the North Rim to get an amazing landscape of the canyon.
- Sightseeing. The top destinations within the canyon for the best views:
- Havasu Falls. A difficult hike, but luckily tourists are presented with an iridescent waterfall. A permit is needed to hike this trail, and it sure is worth it.
- Horseshoe Bend. Another key destination for tourists. This horseshoe shaped region offers travelers a chance to snap great pictures.
- Hualapai River Runners Rafting. Rafting in the Colorado River is one way to get the best views of the canyon. This is ideal for all you adventurers!
TRAVEL TIPS
For all you sightseers, check out Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station, Mary Colter Lookout Studio, and Desert View Watchtower. Visitors also flock to Lipan Point and Colorado River during sunrise and sunset to capture beautiful photographs of the canyon.
This content was developed in partnership with Arrive Outdoors.