Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. With its sheer cliffs, colorful rock layers, and the mighty Colorado River winding through its depths, the canyon is a sight to behold. A Grand Canyon tour is an unforgettable experience. There are many ways to explore the canyon, from hiking and rafting to scenic drives and helicopter tours. You can also learn about the canyon’s geology, ecology, and human history at the park’s many visitor centers and museums. These things to do in Grand Canyon will ensure you have the most unforgettable experience. Keep reading to discover the 9 must-do activities that will make your Grand Canyon National Park trip unforgettable.
1. Hike the South Rim Trail
The South Rim Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Grand Canyon, and for good reason. The trail offers stunning views of the canyon, and it’s relatively easy to hike, making it a great option for families and people of all ages. The trail is about 13 miles long, and it can be hiked in either direction. Most people hike from east to west, starting at the South Rim Visitor Center and ending at Hermits Rest. Along the way, you’ll pass by many of the canyon’s most famous landmarks, including Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Grandview Point. The trail is mostly paved, and it’s well-maintained, making it a safe and enjoyable hike for everyone.
2. Take a scenic drive along the South Rim
If you don’t have time to hike the South Rim Trail, you can still enjoy the stunning views of the canyon by taking a scenic drive along the South Rim Drive. The drive is about 25 miles long, and it takes about two hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll pass by many of the canyon’s most famous landmarks, including Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Grandview Point. You can also stop at the Desert View Watchtower for panoramic views of the canyon. The South Rim Drive is open year-round, but it can be closed during inclement weather. Please note that some sections of the road are closed for repaving work during the winter. Please check the park website for the latest road conditions.
3. Take a helicopter tour of the canyon
For a truly unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon. Helicopter tours depart from both the South Rim and the West Rim of the canyon. Tours vary in length and price, but they all offer breathtaking views of the canyon’s vast expanse and sheer cliffs. You’ll also learn about the canyon’s geology and history from your experienced pilot. Helicopter tours are a great way to see the canyon from a different perspective, and they’re a must-do for anyone who wants to experience the full grandeur of the Grand Canyon.
4. Go rafting on the Colorado River
One of the best ways to experience the Grand Canyon is from the river that carved it. Rafting trips on the Colorado River are available for all levels of experience, from beginner to expert. You can choose a trip that lasts for a few hours or for several days. On a rafting trip, you’ll get up close and personal with the canyon’s sheer walls and massive waterfalls. You’ll also learn about the river’s unique ecosystem and history. Rafting trips are a great way to experience the Grand Canyon in a truly immersive way, and they’re a must-do for anyone who loves adventure.
5. Visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center
The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit to the park. The center has exhibits on the canyon’s geology, ecology, and human history. You can also watch a film about the canyon and get information on hiking trails, scenic drives, and other activities. The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is located on the South Rim of the canyon, near the South Rim Trailhead. The center is open year-round, but hours vary depending on the season. Please check the park website for the latest hours of operation.
6. Explore the Tusayan Ruins & Museum
The Tusayan Ruins & Museum is located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, just a few miles from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. The museum tells the story of the Ancestral Puebloan people who lived in the canyon for centuries. The museum has exhibits on the Ancestral Puebloan culture, their way of life, and their interactions with the environment. You can also see the ruins of a 1,000-year-old village, complete with homes, kivas, and storage pits. The Tusayan Ruins & Museum is a great place to learn about the human history of the Grand Canyon, and it’s a must-see for anyone interested in archaeology or Native American culture.
7. Go stargazing
The Grand Canyon is one of the best places in the world to go stargazing. The canyon’s remote location and lack of light pollution make it possible to see thousands of stars and planets on a clear night. The best time to go stargazing is during the summer months, when the nights are long and the skies are clear. You can find many great stargazing spots throughout the park, but some of the best spots include Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Desert View Watchtower. You can also join a guided stargazing program led by a park ranger. Stargazing is a great way to experience the beauty of the Grand Canyon at night, and it’s a must-do for anyone interested in astronomy.
8. Attend a ranger program
The National Park Service offers a variety of ranger programs throughout the year. These programs are a great way to learn about the Grand Canyon’s geology, ecology, and human history. Ranger programs are led by experienced park rangers, and they cover a wide range of topics, including wildlife, geology, and cultural history. You can find a list of upcoming ranger programs on the park website. Ranger programs are a great way to learn more about the Grand Canyon, and they’re a must-do for anyone who wants to get the most out of their visit.
9. Take a mule tour into the canyon
If you’re looking for a truly unique way to experience the Grand Canyon, take a mule tour into the canyon. Mule tours depart from both the South Rim and the North Rim of the canyon. Tours vary in length and price, but they all offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the canyon from a different perspective. On a mule tour, you’ll ride along narrow trails and cross streams as you make your way into the canyon. You’ll also get up close and personal with the canyon’s sheer walls and massive waterfalls. Mule tours are a great way to experience the Grand Canyon in a truly immersive way, and they’re a must-do for anyone who wants to experience the full grandeur of the Grand Canyon.
Culture
The Grand Canyon has a rich cultural history. The canyon has been home to Native American tribes for centuries, and their stories and traditions are still alive today. You can learn about the Ancestral Puebloan people at the Tusayan Ruins & Museum, and you can also visit the Havasupai Indian Reservation, which is located within the Grand Canyon. The Havasupai people have lived in the canyon for centuries, and they offer guided tours and cultural programs that allow visitors to learn about their way of life.
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit the Grand Canyon are April, May, September, and October. During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable, and the crowds are smaller. However, the Grand Canyon is open year-round, and each season offers its own unique experience. In the winter, the canyon is often covered in snow, and the temperatures can drop below freezing. In the summer, the temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, and the crowds are larger. If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, be sure to check the weather forecast before you go.
Nearby Transportation
The Grand Canyon is located in northern Arizona, and it is accessible by car, plane, and train. The nearest airport is Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG), which is located about 70 miles from the park. You can also fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), which is located about 220 miles from the park. Once you’re in Arizona, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon Railway also offers train service from Williams, Arizona, to the Grand Canyon. The train ride is a scenic way to see the Arizona landscape, and it’s a great option for families and people who don’t want to drive.
Local Food
The Grand Canyon area has a variety of restaurants and cafes that offer a range of cuisines. You can find everything from burgers and fries to fine dining. However, one of the best ways to experience the local food is to try the Native American cuisine. Many of the restaurants in the area serve traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. You can also find Native American food at the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Be sure to try the fry bread, which is a staple of Native American cuisine. It’s a delicious and filling dish that is sure to please everyone.</p