Everything You Need to Know When Visiting the Grand Canyon
Sharing everything you need to know for your next visit to the Grand Canyon – best viewpoints, hikes & activities.
We traveled to the Grand Canyon as part of our babymoon; visiting this iconic National Park first, then driving west to San Diego. We had an amazing trip just the three of us, but we truly can’t wait to return to the Grand Canyon when Karter is a little older, to explore more of this geological wonder.
The Grand Canyon is located in northern Arizona. It has four sections you can explore: South Rim (most popular as it’s open year-round), North Rim (open mid-May to mid-October), West Rim (Skywalk at Eagle Point), and East Rim.
We visited the Grand Canyon in January, entering through the South Rim. This was about 1.5 hours north of Flagstaff, where we stayed at High Country Motor Lodge. It was chilly, but a beautiful sunny day with fewer crowds to navigate through.
Things to Do When Visiting the Grand Canyon
Depending on the activities you are wanting to do, be mindful of the different seasons and their temperatures. If you’re wanting to hike the canyon, be aware of temperatures rising upwards of 120°F during the summer months, with crowds of people swarming the park. Be sure to review this resource for more in-depth information.
Scenic Viewpoints
South Rim
- Mather Point – a short walk from the visitors center.
- Yaki Point – is accessible by bike or shuttle bus only. Offering stunning views during sunrise and sunset!
- Hopi Point – offers stunning views of the Colorado River. It’s recommended to visit during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views.
- Desert View Watchtower – recognized as a National Historic Landmark that offers a unique view of the Grand Canyon.
North Rim
- Bright Angel Point – a popular viewpoint offering stunning views of Bright Angel Canyon.
- Point Imperial – the highest point of the rim, and northern boundary of the park.
West Rim
- Grand Canyon West – home of the Skywalk, a glass bridge with exhilarating views.
Hikes
- North Kaibab Trail – offers three different turnaround points: Coconino Overlook, Supai Tunnel, and Redwall Bridge.
- Rim Trail – mostly paved path that extends for 13 miles along the southern rim of Grand Canyon.
- South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point – a 1.8-mile out-and-back moderately challenging hike.
- Bright Angel Trail – 15.8-mile out-and-back considered highly challenging.
- South Kaibab Trail to Phantom Ranch – 14.3-mile out-and-back challenging hike.
- Yavapai Point via Rim Trail – 1.7-mile out-and-back easy trail.
Activities
- Hike to Havasu Falls to enjoy the beautiful, turquoise pools.
- Spend your nights stargazing in the Grand Canyon.
- Experience a helicopter ride for an aerial view of the Grand Canyon.
- Grand Canyon white water rafting down the Colorado River.
- Take a mule ride into the canyon.
Traveling to the Grand Canyon was such a fun way to start our babymoon. Not only is this National Park absolutely stunning, there’s so many different activities to be enjoyed! Let me know if you have any questions below. 😊
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