The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm.
Entrance to Grand Canyon National Park costs $35 per vehicle, $30 for motorcycles, and $20 per person on foot or bike. Passes are valid for 7 days. Annual passes are also available, such as the America the Beautiful Annual Pass for $80 and the Grand Canyon National Park Pass for $70.
By air: Fly into Flagstaff (FLG) or Phoenix (PHX), then rent a car or take a shuttle. By car: Access via Route 64 or US-180. By train: Grand Canyon Railway from Williams. By bus: Tours from Las Vegas, Phoenix, Flagstaff.
At Grand Canyon’s South Rim, parking is available in lots 1-4 near the Visitor Center and lots A-D in Market Plaza and the Village Historic District. Lots 1, B, and D accommodate RVs. No overnight parking in these lots. Free shuttle service available. No specific fees for parking, but park entrance fees apply.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Welcome to Grand Canyon National Park: Experience Nature’s Majesty! Nestled in the heart of Arizona, this iconic landmark stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring power of nature. Carved over millions of years by the mighty Colorado River, the Grand Canyon stretches over 277 miles long, reaching depths of over a mile and showcasing stunning geological formations that captivate millions of visitors each year.
- Area (mi²)
- 1904
- Annual visitors
- 4 900 000
- Established year
- 1919
Top 3 Facts about Grand Canyon National Park
This natural wonder creates its own weather, with its vast depth of up to 6,000 feet influencing local climate conditions and sometimes generating thunderstorms within the canyon itself.
The canyon spans 277 miles in length, up to 18 miles wide, and over 6,000 feet deep.
The park supports over 450 bird species and a variety of wildlife from mountain lions to desert bighorn sheep.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research attractions, weather, and plan lodging in advance. Check for events or ranger programs before visiting.
Pack Appropriately
Carry lots of water, especially in warmer months. Dress in layers and bring sunscreen, a hat, and hiking essentials.
Respect Wildlife
Stay on trails, watch your step near canyon edges, and do not approach wildlife. Follow all safety signs and rules.
Stay Informed
Prepare for varying weather—sun to snow. Layer clothing and check forecasts if planning long hikes or backcountry trips.
Seasons
March to May offers blooming wildflowers, warming temps, and fewer crowds. Excellent for hiking and photography.
June to August is peak season with hot temperatures, especially below the rim. Best for rafting, hiking early, and ranger-led programs.
September to November features colorful foliage, smaller crowds, and clear skies. Ideal for scenic hikes and solitude.
December to February brings snow and quiet. South Rim stays open year-round. Great for crisp views and fewer crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Grand Canyon National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Tusayan is the closest town, just 2 miles outside the national park boundaries. However, if considering a city, Williams is the closest, about 55 miles from the South Entrance. Flagstaff, with a population of about 75,000, is the nearest major city, approximately 75 miles away.
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The South Rim Trail is a great option for kids because it is mostly paved, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, and offers varied scenery and historic points. The Bright Angel Trail is also popular, starting in Grand Canyon Village, with marked rest stops and water stations, making it suitable for family hikes of varying lengths.
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You can take your dog on trails above the rim, but not below it. Leashed dogs are allowed on the South Rim’s trails and the North Rim’s Bridle Trail. They must be on a 6-foot leash and cannot go on inner canyon trails like the South Kaibab or Bright Angel Trail.
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You can camp overnight in your RV, but there are limits. For RVs over 22 feet long, options are limited. Mather Campground and the RV Campground with full hookups are available year-round, while other campgrounds have seasonal restrictions.
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Start your day with a sunrise view at Mather Point, one of the best spots to see the canyon’s breathtaking colors. Visit the Yavapai Geology Museum to learn about the canyon’s geological history and see a 3D map. You can also hike the South Kaibab Trail or the Rim Trail, and stop by the Grand Canyon Visitor Centre for more information. Enjoy lunch at El Tovar Hotel or Bright Angel Lodge, and end the day with a sunset view.
