Last Updated on March 31, 2024 by foxintheforest

The first time you see the mighty Grand Canyon in northern Arizona, it’ll straight up take your breath away. One of the best ways to enhance your experience is to embark on one of the many amazing things to do in the Grand Canyon.

I remember waking up before dawn to first lay eyes on the Grand Canyon. We briskly towards the famous Imperial Point for sunrise.

The scene was mesmerizing. Shadows dancing across the canyon, the echo of an eagle screaming in the distance, and literally zero people around.

It. Blew. My. Mind. To. Pieces.

One of the best Grand Canyon activities is to catch a sunrise at a quiet overlook. Far from the crowds at this popular US national park.

If you’re looking to visit the Grand Canyon without the crowds. You’ve come to the right place.

Sure, this list of Grand Canyon must-see highlights certainly includes some crowded places. But I’ll let you in on a little secret.

The early bird, gets the epic. Meaning, if you wake up before dawn for some of the most popular things to do in the Grand Canyon, you’ll have the place to yourself.

Here are a few Grand Canyon activities you can’t miss. You can also use this epic guide to when considering the Grand Canyon North Rim vs. South Rim.

About this Guide to Things to Do in the Grand Canyon

When it comes to finding the best things to do in the Grand Canyon, you’ll be prepared once you’ve read through this guide. Here’s what you’ll find inside:

• Amazing Grand Canyon activities to add to your bucket list
• Info on where to stay in the Grand Canyon including camping and lodging in the park
• When is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon?
• Practical info to plan your visit like a local, not a tourist
• Additional Grand Canyon National Park planning resources

The Best Things to Do in the Grand Canyon

Let’s dive right in with this list of mega-epic things to do in the Grand Canyon. This list covers everything from leisurely overlooks to multi-day hiking adventures.

1. Experience The Desert View Drive

A scenic drive across the Grand Canyon is the perfect way to get an introduction to the best it has to offer.

The Desert View Drive is a 25-mile long ride that starts at the Grand Canyon Village (South Rim) and hits up some of the most phenomenal viewpoints like Navajo Point (epic views of the Big Bend and Colorado River), Moran Point (for all the colors), and the ever-famous Grandview Point (one of the most popular Grand Canyon attractions.)

Pro Tip: The best views are on the left, so I recommend driving down to the end of the trail and going slowly on the way back. Drive out in the dark for sunrise to beat the crowds.

2. Check Out Desert View Watchtower

Be sure to stop and enjoy all that Desert View Watchtower has to offer since this structure has five floors and features unique featuring tribal artwork/pictographs. on each level.

After all, this is one of the best things to do in Grand Canyon National Park that can be found in the East Rim and that offers some of the best views of the Canyon.

Additionally, the tower is quite historic since it was built in 1932. It was also designed by Mary Colter West, who wanted to create a building that blended well with the natural environment and that paid homage to the area’s original inhabitants.

3. Catch The Sunset Of Your Life

They say no visit to the Grand Canyon is ever really complete unless you witness a sunset here from one of the best Grand Canyon viewpoints.

Yes, they’re that epic – even in bad weather(!!) -, and yes, you should definitely hang around long enough to experience at least one of them. Here are some of the coolest spots in Grand Canyon to catch a sunset. You can also try some of the best sunset tours of the Grand Canyon if you don’t want to go on your own.

• Grandview Point: Set a 25-minute drive on Desert View Road and provides a grandiose view of the light shifting onto the canyon walls.
• Hopi Point: An epic 180-degree view of the canyon where you’ll get to see a rainbow of colors both on the rocks and on the sky.
• Lipan Point: Offers jaw-dropping vistas of the canyon and the San Francisco Peaks paired with views of the Painted Desert far off into the horizon.
• Pima Point: Your go-to spot where you’re most likely to beat the crowds for sunset and get a more secluded experience with views of the Colorado River down below.

4. Explore the the Tusayan Ruin

Looking for some of the best things to do in Grand Canyon National Park? Then head to the Tusayan Ruin if you enjoy history and want to learn more about the local culture of indigenous people.

See, this is one of the most significant sites in the park that is also well-located near the Desert View Drive.

So, after a 7-minute drive, explore a site that dates back over 800 years and that is home to the remains of a Pueblo with storage areas, a kiva, and living areas.

Afterward, visit the Tusayan Museum and learn more about how ancient people used to live here during your Grand Canyon itinerary.

5. Or Beat The Crowds And Opt For Sunrise Instead

Sunsets are extremely popular in the Grand Canyon. If you’d rather have a quiet experience, opt for sunrise instead.

The entire canyon is an absolute treat to see as the sun begins to hit the walls, so you’re in for the view of your life regardless of where you are.

If you want a specific place for sunrise, though, here are my recommendations:

• South Rim: An absolute must is Moran Point, one of the best Grand Canyon viewpoints. It provides an astonishing view of the Hakatai Rapids and sedimentary rocks where the light reflects on and creates moving images against the striking colors.
• North Rim: If you’re visiting the North Rim, Point Imperial is hands-down the most epic sunrise spot in the Grand Canyon. This viewpoint stands at 8,803 feet above sea level, making it the highest point of the entire national park, and provides the best view of the Grand Canyon. What’s best? It’s what I’d call a secret gem and you’re very much likely to get it entirely to yourself.

Pro Tip: Bring layers! At this altitude, it’s chilly in the mornings.

6. Consider Riding a Mule into the Grand Canyon

Available on both the north and south rim of the Grand Canyon, riding a mule is one of the best things to do in the Grand Canyon if you’re looking for a bit of adventure.

In fact, you can ride a mule all the way to the very bottom of the canyon and add this once-in-a-lifetime experience to your Grand Canyon itinerary.

• South Rim: You have the option to do everything a 2-hour mule ride (around $150.00) or an overnight mule ride with accommodations at Phantom Ranch ($700.00). Mules rides here will be more expensive and there will be bigger crowds. However, you can learn more here.
• North Rim: The North Rim is quieter and so mule rides will be less expensive. However, you can only do 1 or 3 hour rides that are priced at between $50.00 and $100.00 per person. Therefore, you will not be able to do an overnight trip to the bottom of the canyon with Canyon Trail Rides.

7. Go On An Epic Hike

Hiking is arguably one of the best things to do in the Grand Canyon and is an ideal way to truly soak its epicness in.

With over 50 Grand Canyon trails to choose from, deciding where to hike can be a bit overwhelming. One thing to keep in mind when taking your pick is the location of your trail.

The South Rim is the most popular area and not ideal if you’re not too keen on big crowds.

For a more secluded experience, hikes along the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is an infinitely better option.

Pro Tip: The north and south rim are separated by a 4 hours drive along a windy dirt road. Plan to spend the night at the north rim if you’re coming to visit – trust me it’s worth it.

Here are some of the best hikes in the North and South Rim:

Bright Angel Point (North Rim): If you’re in the mood to go absolutely gaga when you realize the actual size of the Grand Canyon, taking a hike to Bright Angel Point on the North Rim will not disappoint.

The hike starts at Grand Canyon Lodge and provides several sweeping views along the way, but the real star of the show is the 280-degree view of the Grand Canyon that will greet you when you make it to the end of the trail.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.9 miles
Approx. Time: 45 minutes

The Trail Of Time (South Rim): An interactive trail and one of the best Grand Canyon activities if you want to get to learn about the geological history behind the area.

The trail starts at Yavapai Geology Museum, which is another Grand Canyon must-see if you want to learn more about the millions of years that back up the site.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.8 miles
Aprox. time: 1.5 hours

South Kaibab Trail (South Rim to North Rim): Now, now, if you’re up for the real deal and to do one of the biggest bucket list hikes in the United States, the South Kaibab Trail is a must.

The trail is also known as the Rim-To-Rim hike, starting in the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and ending at the North Rim Visitor Center.

Typically, it takes three nights to finish the entire trail and you’ll need advanced backpacking permits to complete it.

There’s also the option to do the trail partially as it’s popular for day hikers, but the further you go, the smaller the crowds get and it’s definitely a backpacking adventure you should attempt if you’d like to experience what hiking in the desert is really like.

Difficulty: Difficult
Distance: 19.3 miles
Approximate Time: 2 days one way recommended.

Pro Tip: You’ll have to book a shuttle, or hike back the way you came if you do the entire trail.

Cape Royal (North Rim): Cape Royal is one of the most accessible hikes on the North Rim if you’re up for an easy hike that’ll reward you with some seriously astonishing views.

As you go, you’ll be greeted with several outlooks of the canyon as well as barrier-free vistas where you can stand close to the edge if you dare.

Difficulty: Easy, partially paved for accessibility
Distance: 2 miles
Approx time: 1 hour

Cape Final (North Rim): Cape Final is a short trail but one of the best hikes on the North Rim if you’re looking for barrier-free and secluded views.

This point is certainly a Grand Canyon must-see attraction.
As you make your way down to Cape Final, you’ll be greeted with several vantage points that offer some of the quietest views of the Grand Canyon.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 4 miles
Approximate Time: 2 hours

Pro Tip: There is a single backcountry campsite at Cape Final. It’s a tough permit to snag, so do your homework beforehand. But if you’re lucky, you’ll have the entire place to yourself for the night. WOWZA!

8. Book a Guided Tour with a Ranger

As you probably already know, Grand Canyon National Park is big – 1,902 square miles to be exact.

So, it can feel challenging to create your own Grand Canyon bucket list and itinerary since there are so many things to do and so little time.

However, ranger-led tours are available in the North, South, and East rim of the Grand Canyon and are great family-friendly activity that everyone will love.

They also help you quickly and easily enjoy all the top attractions in Grand Canyon National Park.

Just be aware that offerings change seasonally and annually, with summer and fall being the most popular times to book a tour.

But, you’ll likely uncover fun things to do in the Grand Canyon that include:

• Stargazing
• Rim Walks
• Films
• Handicraft Demos
• Ranger talks
• And more!

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting from far away then consider doing a Grand Canyon tour from Phoenix.

9. See The Grand Canyon From Up Above

There’s something magical about standing in front of the Grand Canyon and realizing how mighty it actually is.

If you want to take that high to the next level (no pun intended here!), you can actually do it by booking a helicopter tour above the Grand Canyon.

Most helicopter tours start from Las Vegas, but there are a couple of companies that fly in from the West Rim.

10. Take a Ride or Hike Along Hermit Road (West Rim Road)

Hermit Road is a classic thing to do in the Grand Canyon. Most of the year it’s only accessible by bike, bus, or walking.

But that shouldn’t stop you from experiencing this magnificent stretch of canyon!

Some of the park’s best overlooks are here and include:

Hermit Road is 7 miles long and takes about 15-20 minutes to drive each way depending on how many stops you take. At the end of Hermit Road you’ll reach Hermit’s Rest which is a great spot to pop out and check out the amazing views.

Walking takes around 4 hours with stops (it’s about an eight mile journey one-way, but the trail is really mellow and flat). The bus is an 80-minute round-trip ride without stops, so plan for a few hours if you’re taking the bus.

Grand Canyon viewpoints on Hermit Road include:

• Trail View Overlook
• Powell Point
• Hopi Point
• Monument Creek Vista
• Maricopa Point

However, this road is only available to private vehicles in the winter. So, from March 1st to November 30th, you’ll have to use the red line park shuttle to get here.

Pro Tip: Walk the trail out to Hermit’s Rest, then take the express shuttle (every bus heading back towards the village only stops at 2 viewpoints before returning to the main bus stop).

11. Raft the Grand Canyon

One of the best ways to have an adventure in the Grand Canyon is to go on a rafting trip. Guided trips are available (as are self-guided permits if you’re an advanced rafter).

People flock from all over the world to raft the Grand Canyon. Although much of the water is calm, there are several difficult, world-renowned obstacles to navigate.

Rafting trips range from 6 days to 12 days with a few options to raft by Horseshoe Bend for a half-day or full-day.

Prices vary but include all fees, meals, and transportation throughout your trip.

12. Yavapai Geology Museum

If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in the South Rim then you can’t beat a trip to the Yavapi Geology Museum.

Not only can you escape the heat but they are centrally located and have a cool topographic relief model of the Grand Canyon to help explain the unique geology of the area.

Then, after reading all about the region, be sure to enjoy stunning views of the Grand Canyon from the museum’s windows.

13. Enjoy the Trail of Time

After your visit to the Yavapai Geology Museum, hop on the Trail of Time and use this well-paved path to understand how the Grand Canyon came to life 2+ billion years.

Now, the trailhead is conveniently located right behind the museum and takes around an hour to enjoy since it is about 2.8+ miles long.

Additionally, you’ll learn about the Grand Canyon’s first 1 million years of history and then spend the remainder of your time traveling through 2 billion years of Canyon history.

Per usual, the views of the Grand Canyon from the trail are truly astounding.

14. Check Out a Waterfall

Did you know that the Grand Canyon has a series of underground springs that often spew out of the cliffside as waterfalls. These unique Grand Canyon waterfalls are considered sacred by the Hopi, Navajo, Paiute, and Hualapai tribes.

Havasu Falls is arguably the most famous, but you can hike or raft to a variety of waterfalls such as Mooney Falls, Elves Chasm, Navajo Falls.
Some require multi-day intense hiking to reach, but it’s oh-so-worth-it!

15. Grand Canyon Skywalk

Okay, so technically the Grand Canyon Skywalk is located just outside the park near the West Rim.

But, this is one of the best things to do in the Grand Canyon since a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge takes you 70 feet over the rim so that you can look out at the canyon below.

It’s a truly amazing experience since you feel as though your are floating above the canyon since you can look 4000 feet into the bottom of the Canyon.

Just be sure to purchase tickets in advance, which cost around $26.00 per adult. Also book them well in advance during peak season since this popular Grand Canyon attraction can sell out.

Additionally, the Skywalk is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. You are also required to put your belongings in a free locker and must place special booties (to protect the glass) over your shoes before you can enter the skywalk.

16. Backpack in the Grand Canyon

Wanna go on an overnight adventure in the Grand Canyon? Snag a permit for one of the many backpacking routes in the Grand Canyon.

There are several amazing routes for beginners and advanced backpackers alike. A few of the more popular backpacking routes include:

• Havasu Falls (Permit issued through the Hopi Reservation
• The Rim to Rim hike
• South Kaibab to Bright Angel Loop
• Cape Final

Pro Tip: Plan ahead. Backpacking permits can be tough to snag, especially during the busy season from spring to fall. Submit your permit lottery request the day they are available.

17. Camp along the Rim of the Grand Canyon

There is a super-secret spot along the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. A rugged, 4WD road requiring a high-clearance vehicle brings you to a secluded spot where you’ll be greeted with solitude and sweeping views.

The Tuweep Campground (permit required) has vault toilets and limited facilities. You cannot bring pets or pack animals.

18. Treat Yourself to a Glamping Adventure

Wanna go glamping? Then consider staying at one of the many amazing glamping options at the Grand Canyon.

Phantom Ranch is the most famous, located at the bottom of the canyon, you’ll need to hike or take a mule to the ranch. Plush overnight accommodations can be found at this semi-remote locale.

Or if you’d rather have a drive-up cabin, head to the North Rim Lodge. You’ll have sweeping views just outside of your cabin door near the Bright Angel Viewpoint.

19. See the North Rim

Personally, I prefer the North Rim to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. It’s a lot quieter and is a great place to reconnect with nature as you enjoy one of the best things to do at the Grand Canyon.

Yes, it is a LONG 4-hour drive from the South Rim. But, it’s worth it so that you can:

• Hike to Bright Angel Point
• Enjoy the view from the North Rim Lookout Tower
• Visit Point Imperial
• Marvel at Angels Window
• Enjoy Cape Royal Scenic Drive

Just remember that while the South Rim is open all year long, the North Rim is only open from May 15 to October 15.

Then, after October 15th, this section of the park is open for day-use only until December 1st.

Where To Stay in the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon isn’t short of lodging options, most of which you’ll find in the South Rim. Keep in mind that it’s an extremely popular destination and I recommend booking your stay as far in advance as possible to ensure a spot, even during March in the Grand Canyon.

Lodging in the South Rim

There are six hotels in total that serve the South Rim, including the Tovar Hotel, which just happens to be a National Landmark and still retains the same atmosphere from when it first opened back in the 18th century.

Phantom Ranch is another option and the only place to stay below the canyon rim. This is usually the go-to for those into adventure as it can only be reached on foot, by mule, or by rafting the Colorado River.

Another cool option if you’d rather have a more modern stay is Kachina Lodge, which is the newest lodge on the South Rim. The rooms are spacious and modern without necessarily detracting from the landscape around the hotel.

Lodging in the North Rim

The Grand Canyon Lodge is the only lodge inside the North Rim, so making a reservation far ahead is essential. The hotel provides comfortable cabins and guest rooms that overlook the canyon.

Camping on the South Rim

The South Rim is the most popular Grand Canyon camping area and provides spots to pitch your tent as well as developed campgrounds for vehicles.

Mather Campground is by far the most popular one, and reserving in advance is highly advised from May to November (winters work on a first-come, first-served basis).

Another cool option is Desert View Campground, which is the perfect place if you want to stay as close as possible to the rim.

This campground works on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early to ensure a spot.

Camping on the North Rim

The North Rim offers one campground with many campsites spread all over the area.

For me, the best camping spot on the North Rim is Cape Final. It takes a two-mile hike to get there and offers authentic camping in the desert as well as some of the most secluded views the Grand Canyon has to offer.

Do note that you’ll need to obtain a permit in advance to spend the night on Cape Final.

Other Awesome Things To Do Near The Grand Canyon

Havasupai: Havasupai is a little slice of paradise hidden away in the heart of the desert. If you’re lucky enough to snag a permit, you’re in for a real treat.

Think turquoise waterfalls flowing against orange canyon walls to get an idea of what Havasupai is like (but really, you have to see it with your own eyes to believe it!)

Horseshoe Bend: Once a hidden gem but now arguably one of the most photographed spots in Arizona, Horseshoe Bend is one of the coolest lookouts of the Colorado River that resembles its namesake.

This is one of the best things to do near the Grand Canyon, so make sure not to miss it if you have time!

When to Visit the Grand Canyon

The best time to visit the Grand Canyon really depends on what you want to do. If you’re planning on visiting the South Rim, then winter in the Grand Canyon is the best time to beat the crowds.

The North Rim sits higher – and has cooler weather – and is only open from May 15th through October 15th.

If you’re planning on rafting, then late spring through early fall is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon.

For hiking, camping, and backpacking, visit during the spring or fall. Psst – the Grand Canyon is a must-see national park for fall.

Summers can get dangerously hot (temps over 100-degrees) and the crowds are unreal.

Practical Info for Visiting the Grand Canyon

Be prepared for your Grand Canyon visit. Here is a look at a few quick tips to maximize your enjoyment of some of the best things to do in the Grand Canyon.

Plan ahead. This is one of the most crowded places in America. You’ll want to make all reservations for lodging, permits, and camping well in advance regardless of what month you visit the Grand Canyon.

Day passes to the Grand Canyon are $30 per day. For a multi-day visit, or if you’re visiting other national parks in a 12 month period, consider getting the America the Beautiful Pass.

Get there early. Plan on arriving at the Grand Canyon before the sun rises. You’ll beat the crowds and have much more solitude.

Leave No Trace. Don’t forget to pick up after yourself. Even fruit peels, wrappers, and toilet paper need to be packed out. If you’re backpacking, plan on using WAG bags for the toilet.

Leave Fido at home. Dogs are not allowed in Grand Canyon National Park. Leaving your dog in the car is cruel and can kill them even in mild temperatures.

Overall, when it comes to finding the best things to do in the Grand Canyon you’ve got endless options to explore the magic of this unbelievable place.

Best Things to Do in the Grand Canyon FAQs

What kind of activities can you do in the Grand Canyon?

In the Grand Canyon you can do things like:

• Rafting
• Walking (Canyon Rim Trail)
• Mule Rides
• Helicopter Tours
• Scenic Drives (Hermit Road and Desert View Drive)
• Photography
• Etc.

What Not to Miss Around Grand Canyon?

Some things not to miss around the Grand Canyon include:

• Sunset at Cape Royal
• South Kaibab Trail
• North Rim
• Sunrise at Point Imperial
• Desert View Drive

How Long do you Need to See the Grand Canyon?

To see the Grand Canyon you need anywhere between one and three days. It just depends on how much time you have and what you like to do.

Now, in a day, you can hike into the Canyon, visit iconic viewpoints, walk on the Rim Trail, and enjoy a magical sunset.

What is Fun About the Grand Canyon?

What is fun about the Grand Canyon is that it is one of the best examples of Great Unconformity. This is when rocks of vastly different ages (we’re talking millions of years) sit next to one another.

Additional Resources for Visiting the Grand Canyon

• 11 Mega-Epic Grand Canyon Viewpoints
• The Cape Final Trail: The Grand Canyon’s Most Exclusive Campsite
• Can’t-Miss Grand Canyon North Rim Hikes
• Cape Royal Grand Canyon

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