Are you thinking about visiting Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Grand Canyon National Park worth visiting?
This national park is a good place to visit for one to four days. During our first trip to Grand Canyon National Park in 2008, we fell in love with its grand and awe-inspiring beauty. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in U.S. News Worlds Best Places to Go in 2023. 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.
The Grand Canyon, Arizona
Reasons to Visit Grand Canyon National Park
Hiking
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.
Resorts
There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.
Things to Consider Before Visiting Grand Canyon National Park
Food: Grand Canyon National Park doesn't top the list for most foodies. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.
Lots of Tourists
Grand Canyon National Park sees a high number of visitors every year, which means you might have to wait in line and deal with large crowds during your visit.
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Grand Canyon National Park might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Grand Canyon National Park here or see if Grand Canyon National Park is expensive here.
Related
What is Grand Canyon National Park most famous for?
Grand Canyon National Park is most famous for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. People visit this impressive national park for its great hiking. It is also known for its great resorts. It is often described as breathtaking, stunning, world-renowned, gorgeous, and striking.
What is the most famous sight in Grand Canyon National Park?
The most popular sight in Grand Canyon National Park is the sunset views. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Grand Canyon National Park on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the sunset views and other attractions here.
How touristy is Grand Canyon National Park? Is it a popular national park to visit?
Grand Canyon National Park is a very touristy national park that attracts travelers from around the globe. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Half-day Grand Canyon Christian Hiking Tour on South Kaibab Trail: $189
- Take a Scottsdale/Valley Tour in a Retro Party Bus - Old Town/Scottsdale: $69
- 4 Hour Grand Canyon Biblical Creation Morning Rim Tour: $149
- Antelope Canyon Day Tour from Grand Canyon South: $279
- Grand Canyon Full Day Small Group Tour: $299
- 4-Hour Biblical Creation + Sunset Tour • Grand Canyon National Park South Rim: $149
- Grand Canyon Tour from Tusayan: $245
- 3 Hour Off-Road Sunset Safari to Grand Canyon with Entrance Gate Detour: $123
How long should I spend in Grand Canyon National Park?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Grand Canyon National Park is one to four days. Since Grand Canyon National Park has activities such as hiking, many visit for up to four days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Grand Canyon National Park?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Grand Canyon National Park?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Grand Canyon National Park?.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.