Iconic. Amazing. Breathtaking. All of these words describe the Grand Canyon perfectly. It’s one of those places where you can’t fathom how vast it is until you are standing in front of it, and even then you’ll find yourself saying, “wow!” every 5 seconds. Grand Canyon National Park is located in northwestern Arizona northwestern. This incredible park encompasses stunning canyons and the beautiful Colorado River tributaries that are awe-inspiring. Use this first-timer’s guide to the Grand Canyon to plan your perfect trip.
Since this is your first visit to the park let’s go over some basics first!
Grand Canyon Basics
Cost: All entrances passes are good for 7 consecutive days
Vehicle: $35
Motorcycle: $30
Individual Permit: $20 per person
You can buy a digital entrance pass here
I highly recommend the American The Beautiful Pass if you are going to more than one National Park this year!
Getting To The Grand Canyon
The closest airport to Grand Canyon National Park is Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. It’s just over 3.5 hours from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. If you want to get around Arizona and the Grand Canyon easily you will need a rental car.
Making a road trip out of your visit to the park is easy as you can stop in Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Sedona on your way.
How Many Days Do You Need?
Anytime at Grand Canyon National Park will be amazing, but a minimum of 3 days is recommended. But even one day at the Grand Canyon will allow you to hike, check out the viewpoints, and marvel at the grandeur.
Park Entrances
The Grand Canyon is split up into 4 distinct sections, but only 2 of those are actually in Grand Canyon National Park, the South Rim, and the North Rim.
- The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is open year round and is by far the most popular destination at Grand Canyon National Park. If you visit Grand Canyon National Park this is the only entrance that is open.
- The North Rim is closed during the winter months and typically opens in May and closes in October. This rim is about 1,000 ft higher than its southern sibling. This is where you can find the zip lining over the canyon.
- The West Rim is managed by the Hualapai Tribe and is about 4.5 hours from the park’s popular South Rim.
- The East Rim is the least popular but is known for bringing visitors closer to the Little Colorado River.
Of course, there are an overwhelming amount of things to see and do while visiting Grand Canyon National Park! There are certain things you just shouldn’t miss during your first trip to the canyon.
5 Things First Timers Can’t Miss At The Grand Canyon
1. The South Rim
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is by far the most popular part of the park. The fact that it’s open year round means that those visiting in the winter can only visit the South Rim, but there is so much to do and see at the South Rim that you absolutely shouldn’t miss it! This is where many of the best hikes in the park are and some of the most amazing sunset views!
2. Hike At Least One Trail
The South Rim has so many amazing hiking trails that will give you different perspectives of the canyon. Hike at least one trail on your first visit to Grand Canyon National Park so that you can admire this vastly beautiful canyon up close and personal.
Grand Canyon Rim Trail: Mules To Mather Point
Distance: 6 miles
Rating: Easy
Elevation Gain: 413 ft
This is the trail I chose to “hike” on my first visit to the Grand Canyon. I use the term hike lightly because it is more of a nice subtle walk that gives you amazing views. This dog-friendly trail offers spectacular views of the South Rim. The entire rim trail stretches from the South Kaibab Trail to Hermit’s Rest and is 13 miles long. No matter your skill level, this is a great trail that is mostly paved and lined.
South Kaibab Trail
Distance: 2.8 miles
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,102 ft
The South Kaibab Trail is one of the most popular on the South Rim; it begins at Yaki Point. It is a day hike to the mule hitching post of Cedar Ridge. Be prepared because this trail offers very little shade, no water, and a steep incline. In the winter and early spring, it can also become incredibly icy. If you’re looking to head down the canyon this is the quickest way to the bottom.
3. Visit The Skywalk Of The West Rim
If you visit during the right season (read: not winter) then you shouldn’t miss the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. Although it’s technically not inside Grand Canyon National Park, the Skywalk is a can’t miss on your first trip to the canyon.
The West Rim is on the tribal lands of the Hualapai, and the Skywalk itself is a horseshoe-shaped bridge with a glass bottom. It gives you unparalleled views of the canyon below, all while helping you conquer your fear of heights.
4. Stop At As Many Viewpoints As Possible
The Grand Canyon is known for its insanely gorgeous views in every single direction. Make sure to stop at as many viewpoints and overlooks as possible. Here are a few of my favorite South Rim scenic viewpoints…
Grand View
As you can imagine with a name like this, the Grand View viewpoint is on the Rim Trail just down from the Visitors Center. It will be your first true glimpse of the Grand Canyon and will surely take your breath away.
Mather Point
Mather Point is the go-to scenic viewpoint on the South Rim, and for good reason. It’s an iconic view that is a great introduction to the absolute immensity of the Grand Canyon.
Hopi Point
The Hopi Point viewpoint is along the South Rim Trail and is known for being the best sunset location in the entire park. I wholeheartedly agree with this statement. You’ll get stunning views of the Colorado River cutting into the canyon as the sun sets behind the canyon walls.
Shoshone Point
This underrated viewpoint provides stunning views, but you’ll need to walk an easy 20 minutes to get to the actual overlook here. It’s worth the walk for the 180-degree views of the canyon and you’ll find it way less crowded than many of the other overlooks (and we love that!).
Desert View
This unique viewpoint provides gorgeous views of the open canyon. This viewpoint is on Desert View Drive and heads east, giving you completely different views than many of the other viewpoints in the canyon. Make sure to check out the Desert Watchtower which was built in 1932 and still remains on the cliff’s edge. They also have a great gift shop that has a ton of Native American goods and was my favorite shop in the park.
Hermits Rest
You’ll find this unique viewpoint along the scenic Hermit Road that begins on the west side of the Village Historic District. The road follows the canyon rim for about 7 miles out to Hermits Rest, and the Hermit Trailhead. It’s a short walk from the parking lot to Hermit’s Rest and completely worth it. The views here are spectacular.
5. Stay In The Park
I realize this isn’t possible for everyone but staying in the park gives you the unique advantage of being close to all the action. Staying at the Maswik Lodge was fantastic, and the rooms were so cute and at a great location. I highly recommend it, speaking of…
Where To Stay
Bright Angel Lodge
9 Village Loop Drive, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
$$$
The Bright Angel Lodge is one of the most popular lodging options near the South Rim. There are 90 lodging units with free wifi access. If you choose the Bright Angel Lodge you’ll have quick and easy access to some of the park’s most beloved hiking trails and attractions. Find out more here.
El Tovar Hotel
9 Village Loop Drive, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
$$$
El Tovar opened in the early 1900s at the end of the railroad lines and was regarded as one of the most elegant lodges west of the Mississippi. This 78-room lodge offers an on-site restaurant and concierge services. You can find out more here.
Kachina Lodge
5 Village Loop Drive, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
$$$
This modern lodge is right along the Grand Canyon Rim, meaning many of the rooms have partial canyon views. This 49-room lodge offers wifi, no elevators, and limited cell phone service. It’s perfect for those looking for beautiful views and wanting to unplug. You can find out more about the lodge here.
Thunderbird Lodge
10 Albright Ave, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
$$
The Thunderbird Lodge is one of the more budget-friendly options when it comes to parking lodging. This 55-room property is located between El Tovar and Bright Angel Lodge. There are no elevators in the Thunderbird Lodge, and you’ll need to check-in at the Bright Angel Lodge. If you’re on a budget then this lodge is a great option for you. You can find out more about the lodge here.
Maswik Lodge
202 Village Loop Drive, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
$
You’ll find the Maswik Lodge is nestled in a Ponderosa Pine Forest. The lodge gets its name from a Hopi Kachina who legend has it, guards the Grand Canyon. This 280-room lodge is in a great location and is a little more budget-friendly than other lodgings in the park. Find out more about the Maswik Lodge here.
Tips For First Time Visitors
- Make sure to pack your patience! Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most popular National Parks in the United States, and you’ll have to deal with crowds no matter what time of year you visit. This was even true for my winter visit.
- The Grand Canyon is dog friendly, in fact, your pups can hike the entire rim trail with you. However, they are not permitted below the canyon rim. During the summer months make sure to watch temperatures if you’ve got your fur kids with you.
- Please, do not feed the wildlife! People have been injured by many of the park animals including squirrels, bison, deer, and elk. It’s important not to approach or feed animals for their safety, as well as yours.
- Be prepared for excessive heat if you are visiting in the summer while hiking. Summer temperatures inside the canyon can easily exceed 115 degrees.
No matter what you choose to do during your first visit to the Grand Canyon, one thing is for sure, you won’t forget the time spent here. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Looking for other things to do in Arizona? Check out The Best Sunset Spots In Sedona, Visiting Sedona In Winter, 14 Fun Things To Do In Sedona, and One Day In Sedona.
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