Overview
The Grand Canyon is about 446 km long and up to 1.8 km deep, with layers of rock in red, orange and cream that record around two billion years of geological history. The South Rim is the most visited, with easy access and a series of viewpoints along the rim, while the North Rim is higher, cooler and quieter, and is closed in winter.
Most visitors walk the Rim Trail and stop at overlooks such as Mather Point, Hopi Point and Desert View. Hikers can descend into the canyon on trails such as the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails, but summer heat and the effort of climbing back out catch many people by surprise.
Highlights
- Rim Trail viewpoints on the South Rim, especially at sunrise and sunset
- Desert View Drive and the watchtower
- The Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails into the canyon
- The quieter North Rim in summer and autumn
Best time to visit
The South Rim is open all year, and spring and autumn have the mildest weather. Summer is crowded, and temperatures at the canyon bottom can exceed 40 degrees. The North Rim usually opens in mid-May and closes by mid-October. Winter can be cold, with snow on the rim.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Good
- AprApril: Best
- MayMay: Best
- JunJune: Good
- JulJuly: Not ideal
- AugAugust: Not ideal
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Best
- NovNovember: Good
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Phoenix (PHX), Flagstaff or Las Vegas (LAS), then drive: Flagstaff to the South Rim takes about 1.5 hours and Phoenix about 3.5 hours. A free shuttle runs on the South Rim in the main season. The North Rim is about a five-hour drive from the South Rim.
What to expect
Easy on the rim, challenging below it. Going down is optional but demanding: climbing out takes about twice as long as going down. Avoid hiking to the river in a day in summer. Rangers advise on safe routes, water and timing.
Practical tips
- Do not attempt to hike from rim to river and back in a single day in summer.
- Carry a lot of water and salty snacks if you hike below the rim.
- Book rim lodges and campgrounds months ahead.
- Stay well back from unfenced edges, especially in wind and darkness.
Frequently asked questions
Which rim should I visit?
The South Rim is easier and open all year. The North Rim is quieter and higher, but only open from about mid-May to mid-October.
Can I hike to the bottom?
Yes, but it is hard. Many people hike part of the way down and back. Check with rangers for advice.
How long should I stay?
One to two days for the South Rim viewpoints, longer if you want to hike below the rim.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Tuxyso (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
