Grand Canyon South Rim
Experience the awe-inspiring vastness of the Grand Canyon South Rim, with accessible viewpoints and iconic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Grand Canyon South Rim
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the awe-inspiring vastness of the Grand Canyon South Rim, with accessible viewpoints and iconic trails.
"Photos and videos do not do Grand Canyon National Park justice! It is absolutely stunning!"
🎯 Start your day super early
Beat the crowds and catch the best light for photos by arriving before sunrise.
🚗 Utilize the free park shuttles
Easily access viewpoints and lodges without parking hassles.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mather Point
Near Visitor Center
The most accessible and iconic viewpoint, offering vast panoramic vistas of the canyon's immense depth and beauty.
Desert View Watchtower
East end of South Rim
A historic stone tower with unique architecture, providing stunning, elevated views of the canyon and the Colorado River.
Bright Angel Trail
South Rim Trail
Hike below the rim for a different perspective. Even a short hike offers incredible geological insights and a sense of adventure.
Yavapai Point
South Rim Trail
Offers breathtaking, sweeping canyon views and is home to the Yavapai Geology Museum, explaining the canyon's formation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Start Early!
Embrace the Shuttle System
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Start your day super early
Beat the crowds and catch the best light for photos by arriving before sunrise.
🚗 Utilize the free park shuttles
Easily access viewpoints and lodges without parking hassles.
🥾 Hike below the rim!
Even a short hike offers a unique perspective and geological insights.
🧥 Dress in layers
Weather can change rapidly; be prepared for temperature shifts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Start your day super early
Beat the crowds and catch the best light for photos by arriving before sunrise.
🚗 Utilize the free park shuttles
Easily access viewpoints and lodges without parking hassles.
🥾 Hike below the rim!
Even a short hike offers a unique perspective and geological insights.
🧥 Dress in layers
Weather can change rapidly; be prepared for temperature shifts.
📸 Photos don't do it justice
Prepare to be amazed by the sheer scale and beauty in person.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the Grand Canyon South Rim's breathtaking, awe-inspiring beauty, noting that photos truly don't do it justice. The accessibility and amenities of the South Rim, along with the knowledgeable park staff, are frequently praised. Some visitors mention occasional smoke haze from fires, which can slightly impact visibility.
"The South Side has been more accessible with more amenities since before the Park opened in 1919. Mather Point is close to the Visitors Center, has it’s own shuttle stop, paved walkways, restrooms nearby, and so on. If accessibility is a concern, you’ll have it here. In fact, I’d say if you’ve been concerned about mobility or accessibility in a Park, this is an excellent one to start with – there are multiple lodges, historic buildings, paved trails, and more all connected by shuttles and parking options.
I watched the sun come up and then decided to hit the trail from Mather Point to Bright Angel and I am so so glad I did. The weather was in the 70’s. The wildlife was out. I had a consistent view of the canyon, an incredibly well curated geological trail to follow, and I hit major historic Park architecture along the way.
If you had one day and hike to do with family and friends who had different needs and expectations of hiking, I’d recommend this one! I’ll also cover why I chose to stay up in elevation and not venture down into the canyon."
Raymonds Where (RaymondsWhere)
"I’m delighted and feel lucky enough to visit Grand Canyon. I had a great view of canyon, ridges and other wonderful places. It was a clear day with less crowded during my visit which made it more enjoyable.
I enjoyed every single moment of my stay and cherished with once in a lifetime experience which I got from this visit."
Falcon 2015
"This is just an incredible place to come too to see this part of God’s beautiful creation! There is some really cool viewing places of the canyon here. I had seen many pictures of the canyon before I came, but they don’t truly show the depth of this canyon! Just a wonderful experience to come see this in person. When we were here, there was a bit of smoke in the sky due to the north rim fire, but it was still very beautiful!"
Kendrick Strite
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach the Grand Canyon South Rim is by car. It's accessible via Highway 64. Major airports nearby include Flagstaff (FLG), Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), and Las Vegas (LAS). From Flagstaff, it's about a 1.5-hour drive. +1
While there isn't direct public bus service from major cities, once you're at the Grand Canyon Village, the free park shuttle system is excellent for getting around the South Rim.
The free park shuttle buses are the most convenient way to explore the South Rim. They connect the Visitor Center, lodges, viewpoints, and trailheads along the rim.
No, many viewpoints along Hermit Road are only accessible by the park shuttle during peak season. Private vehicles are restricted. +1
Yes, RVs can access the South Rim and there are designated RV parking areas. However, large RVs may have difficulty navigating some of the tighter roads and parking lots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Grand Canyon National Park is $35 per vehicle, valid for 7 days. An annual America the Beautiful Pass also covers entry.
No, you do not need to book specific entry tickets in advance for the Grand Canyon South Rim. The park entrance fee is paid upon arrival. However, lodging inside the park should be booked well in advance.
The South Rim is open 24 hours a day, year-round. However, visitor centers and facilities have specific operating hours, which vary by season.
No, the park shuttle buses on the South Rim are completely free to use for all visitors.
Yes, the South Rim is open year-round, including winter. Snow can occur, making for a beautiful, serene experience, but some roads or trails might be temporarily closed.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Must-see viewpoints include Mather Point, Yavapai Point, Hopi Point, and Grandview Point. The Desert View Watchtower also offers unique perspectives.
For a below-the-rim experience, consider hiking a portion of the Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail. For rim-level walks, the South Rim Trail is paved and accessible.
Yes, it's possible to hike to the bottom via trails like Bright Angel or South Kaibab, but it's a strenuous, all-day endeavor (or requires an overnight stay). It's not recommended for casual day hikers.
You might spot elk, mule deer, squirrels, and various bird species like condors. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed the wildlife.
Yes, the Grand Canyon offers various ranger-led programs, including talks, guided walks, and the Junior Ranger program for kids. Check the park's schedule for details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options range from casual cafeterias and delis to sit-down restaurants within Grand Canyon Village. El Tovar Dining Room offers a more upscale experience.
Yes, there are general stores and markets in Grand Canyon Village where you can purchase groceries, snacks, and drinks.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and having a picnic at one of the designated picnic areas is a great way to save money and enjoy the views.
Inside the park, you'll find options like the Maswik Food Court, Yavapai Lodge Restaurant, and the historic El Tovar Dining Room, offering a variety of cuisines.
Dining within the park can be moderately expensive. Packing your own snacks and some meals can help manage costs.
📸 📸 Photography
For sunrise, Mather Point and Yavapai Point are excellent. For sunset, Hopi Point and Mohave Point on Hermit Road are highly recommended.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions like sunrise/sunset. Don't forget extra batteries!
No, drone operations are prohibited within Grand Canyon National Park to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety.
Use foreground elements to create a sense of scale. Shooting at different times of day will highlight the canyon's textures and shadows.
Consider capturing the Desert View Watchtower, wildlife, or the stars at night (if conditions are right). Hiking below the rim also offers unique perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Lodging options within Grand Canyon Village, like Yavapai Lodge, are convenient for families. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be mindful of the sheer drop-offs at viewpoints – always supervise children closely. The free park shuttles are also a hit with kids, offering a fun way to get around.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Focus on free activities like walking the South Rim Trail, attending ranger programs, and enjoying the incredible viewpoints. While souvenirs can be tempting, prioritize experiences over material goods.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Consider hiking a short distance below the rim on trails like Bright Angel for unique perspectives and to capture the canyon's immense scale. Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness and a tripod for low-light conditions. Remember that drones are prohibited within the park.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the South Rim Trail
This trail is highly accessible, making it ideal for families, those with mobility concerns, and anyone who wants to soak in the scenery without strenuous hiking. You can hop on and off the free park shuttle at various points along the trail, allowing you to customize your exploration. Key points along the trail include Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and the historic Grand Canyon Village.
Pro Tip: While the entire trail is beautiful, the section between Mather Point and Grand Canyon Village is particularly popular and offers iconic vistas. For a more secluded experience, consider exploring the western sections towards Hermits Rest, especially during the shoulder seasons.
Hiking Below the Rim: Trails and Tips
+1It's crucial to understand that hiking into the canyon is a serious undertaking. Even a short hike down can be challenging to hike back up due to the elevation change and heat. Visitors are strongly advised to carry plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and be aware of their physical limits. Hiking to the Colorado River and back in one day is not recommended for most people.
Community Advice: Many travelers emphasize that even hiking just a mile or two down provides a completely different perspective and a sense of accomplishment. If you're considering a longer hike, plan meticulously, start very early, and be prepared for strenuous conditions.
Grand Canyon Village: Your Hub for Amenities
The village also boasts historic architecture, including the El Tovar Hotel, Hopi House, and Lookout Studio, which offer a glimpse into the park's past. These structures are not only architecturally significant but also provide unique viewpoints and shopping opportunities.
Insider Tip: Staying within Grand Canyon Village can significantly enhance your visit by minimizing travel time to key attractions and allowing you to easily catch sunrise or sunset views without a long drive.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit