Grand Canyon National Park

Last updated on April 30, 2026.

The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, drawing millions of visitors each year to northern Arizona. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the canyon stretches approximately 277 miles long and reaches depths of over 6,000 feet. From the easily accessible South Rim to the remote North Rim, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking viewpoints, hiking trails, and unforgettable outdoor experiences for visitors of all ages.

Bright Angel Trail descending into the Grand Canyon with dramatic canyon views

Bright Angel Trail Grand Canyon. © Mike Koopsen

Why Visit Grand Canyon National Park

Visiting the Grand Canyon offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience one of the most visually stunning landscapes on Earth. The park provides a wide range of activities including scenic overlooks, hiking trails like the famous Bright Angel Trail, ranger-led programs, and photography opportunities at sunrise and sunset. Whether you’re looking for an easy sightseeing trip or a challenging backcountry adventure, the Grand Canyon delivers unmatched natural beauty and diverse experiences year-round.

Over 5 million visitors annually travel to the Grand Canyon to experience one of the World's Seven Wonders. Vast and magnificent stretching 277 miles long and 6,000 feet deep. The Grand Canyon National Park covers over 1.2 million acres or about 1,900 square miles.

Best Things To See & Do At The Grand Canyon

Walk the Rim Trail for panoramic canyon views along the South Rim
Hike the Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail into the canyon
Drive Desert View Scenic Drive for multiple overlook viewpoints
Visit Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Grandview Point
Watch sunrise and sunset over the canyon for dramatic lighting
Explore Grand Canyon Village including museums and visitor centers
Take a rafting trip on the Colorado River through the canyon
Ride the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams to the South Rim
Visit the quieter North Rim for a more remote experience

The width of the Grand Canyon ranges from about 10 to 18 miles across but to get from the South Rim to the North Rim would require a drive of about 215 miles. You could hike from one side to the other, but that trek would likely take about three days of strenuous hiking.

Carved by the Colorado River, the official beginning of the Grand Canyon is Lees Ferry close to Glen Canyon Dam which creates Lake Powell. It ends at Grand Wash Cliffs as the river enters Lake Mead. A rafting trip through its entire length would take two weeks or longer.

Best Times To Visit Grand Canyon National Park

Spring (March – May)

Mild temperatures and fewer crowds than summer
Ideal for hiking and sightseeing
Occasional snow possible in early spring

Summer (June – August)

Peak visitation season with full services open
Warm temperatures at the rim, cooler than desert areas
Afternoon thunderstorms common during monsoon season

Fall (September – November)

Cooler weather and reduced crowds
Excellent visibility for photography
One of the best times to visit overall

Winter (December – February)

Fewer visitors and quiet conditions
Snow creates dramatic canyon scenery
Cold temperatures, especially at higher elevations

Which Rim Should You Visit?

Click for area details

Grand Canyon National Park is only comprised of the South Rim and the North Rim. Grand Canyon West and Havasupai are well outside the park boundaries on the Hualapai and Havasupai Indian Reservations. Hualapai is home of the famous "Skywalk" and Havasupai boasts the spectacular set of waterfalls at the bottom of the canyon.

Grand Canyon South Rim

The greatest number of tourists visit the Grand Canyon South Rim. It features the most services and amenities including restaurants, hotels, museums, multiple visitor centers, campgrounds, museums and free Ranger programs in addition to complimentary shuttle buses that continuously run between attractions. The South Rim has the easiest access from Interstate 40 and the cities of Flagstaff and Williams AZ.

Desert View Scenic Drive overlook with expansive Grand Canyon views

The South Rim is open every day, all year. Its Rim Trail is 14 miles long and follows the canyon edge with amazing views from many of the major overlook points. The 25-mile Desert View Drive connects Grand Canyon Village and the east entrance (Desert View) to the South Rim.

Grand Canyon North Rim

The North Rim offers superb views from a different canyon perspective. Hiking trails are more rugged and remote than those at the South Rim. The north side of Grand Canyon is definitely for the more adventurous that prefers smaller crowds. Although the views of the North Rim are equally impressive, there are fewer views of the distant Colorado River.

From mid-October to mid-May visitor services at the North rim of the Grand Canyon are closed. Although the North Rim is open during the winter months (weather permitting), Highway 67 from Jacob's Lake to the entrance ma be closed due to heavy snow and ice. Driving distance between the South Rim and North Rim is over 200 miles, so if you plan on travel to both sides, plan a multiple day trip.

Planning Your Visit To The Grand Canyon

Using the navigation below, find more information about each of the rims at the Grand Canyon. Once you make a choice, you have to decide the best time to visit, how long you will stay, and what you plan to see and do while you are there. There is much to consider when planning the most memorable experience at Grand Canyon National Park.

Desert View Overlook

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Grand Canyon located?
Grand Canyon National Park is located in northern Arizona, primarily accessible from the South Rim near Flagstaff and Williams.

Which rim is best to visit?
The South Rim is the most popular and accessible, while the North Rim offers fewer crowds and a more remote experience.

How long should you spend at the Grand Canyon?
Most visitors spend one to three days exploring viewpoints, hiking trails, and scenic drives.

What is the best time of year to visit the Grand Canyon?
Spring and fall offer the best combination of weather and smaller crowds, while summer is busiest and winter is quietest.

Can you drive through the Grand Canyon?
You cannot drive across the canyon, but you can explore scenic routes such as Desert View Drive along the South Rim.

Is the Grand Canyon suitable for families?
Yes, the Grand Canyon offers family-friendly viewpoints, easy trails, and visitor centers suitable for all ages.

General Information and Questions

Grand Canyon National Park
P.O. Box 129
(928) 638-7888 (General Questions)
(928) 638-7875 (Back Country Camping)