Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Grand Canyon National Park?

Should you spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Grand Canyon National Park?

Many visitors spend one to four days in Grand Canyon National Park during their trip. If you're not sure how much time you might need here, we have the answers because your journey calls for making the most of every moment. The national park offers the chance to take in the beautiful scenery and go hiking.

The Grand Canyon is an iconic landmark in the United States. It's located in the state of Arizona and it is surrounded by a national park. The canyon is formed by the Colorado River and the views from the rim are truly breathtaking, particularly at sunrise and sunset. There is an easy stroll along the rim of the canyon, or a much more strenuous hike into the canyon. Along the rim there are many vistas and viewpoints.

Do you have one or two days to visit Grand Canyon National Park? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.


Is one day enough time in Grand Canyon National Park?

With only one day, you'll probably feel rushed to explore the outdoors and scenery. To fully embrace Grand Canyon National Park, a longer visit is better. Most travelers tend to one to four days to experience the sunset views as well as take in the beautiful scenery and go hiking. However, if your schedule is limited, we can provide some suggestions to maximize your time.

How to spend a day in Grand Canyon National Park

When visiting Grand Canyon National Park, you absolutely can't miss the sunset views as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you allow yourself enough time to fully experience it.

Grand Canyon National Park is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim ($149)
  • 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour ($123)
  • Grand Canyon Signature Hummer Tour with Optional Sunset Views ($121)

Is a weekend (two to three days) enough time in Grand Canyon National Park?

Unfortunately, a weekend is probably not enough time here. You might feel rushed to enjoy the scenery and nature of Grand Canyon National Park. Most vacationers schedule one to four days to fully experience the stunning national park. Nevertheless, if time is of the essence, we have some nice suggestions for your visit, which includes the sunset views.

The Grand Canyon, Arizona The Grand Canyon, Arizona

How to spend 2 days in Grand Canyon National Park

If you have more than a weekend (two to three days) in Grand Canyon National Park, you'll appreciate the added time for everything the national park has to offer.

Known for it's hiking, Grand Canyon National Park sees plenty of visitors looking to get outdoors. Spend a day exploring the natural beauty and scenery on a nearby hike. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • Hermits Rest Hiking Tour from Tusayan ($165)
  • Hermits Rest Sunset Hiking Tour from Tusayan ($188)

More Info

If you're looking for more information about Grand Canyon National Park, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.

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