Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Grand Canyon National Park?

Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 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 3, 4, or 5 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 3 days enough time in Grand Canyon National Park?

A trip over three days is often considered ideal, as many tourists spend approximately one to four days for their trip here. This amount of time is perfect to take in the beautiful scenery and go hiking. Further down, you'll find our recommendations to kick off your adventure so you won't miss the sunset views.

How to spend 3 days 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)

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)

After you've explored most of Grand Canyon National Park, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.

Is 4 days enough time in Grand Canyon National Park?

Four days is more than sufficient for an in-depth trip to the breathtaking national park, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. Take in the beautiful scenery and go hiking on your own schedule. Then, unwind at your hotel and use it as a hub for some nice day trips in the surrounding area.

The Grand Canyon, Arizona The Grand Canyon, Arizona

How to spend 4 days in Grand Canyon National Park

If you have more than 4 days in Grand Canyon National Park, you'll appreciate the added time for everything the national park has to offer.

With so much time here, you should absolutely take another day trip to one of the many nearby destinations around Grand Canyon National Park. Plenty of amazing options are available.

Is 5 days enough time in Grand Canyon National Park?

Five days is more than enough time to see everything in the area. Many visitors prefer to spend one to four days here, so you'll be able to take in the beautiful scenery and go hiking at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the region.

How to spend 5 days in Grand Canyon National Park

With 5 days in Grand Canyon National Park, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy everything the national park has to offer at your own relaxed pace. You'll want to spend plenty of time hiking. You can also relax at your hotel, or casually explore this national park looking for hidden gems. Also, consider taking some day trips to nearby destinations where you can explore more of the region.


A few trip suggestions:

  • 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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