Grand Canyon, USA

AirportPHX, FLG
CurrencyUSD
LanguageEnglish
Flights: Kayak | ExpediaLodging: Hotel | AirBnB
Get Around: Car | TrainTour: Expedia | Viator
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Introduction: The Grand Canyon is a steep-sided canyon 277 miles long, 18 miles wide with depth reaching upto 6000 feet. It’s one of world’s most popular natural attraction and is located in Arizona, USA.

Key Facts: Nearest major airport hubs to Grand Canyon are in Phoenix, Arizona for South Rim and Las Vegas, Nevada for Grand Canyon West. Interstate I-40 passes through Williams and Flagstaff, nearest cities to South Rim. The canyon and adjacent rim are contained within Grand Canyon National Park, Kaibab National Forest, Hualapai Indian Reservation, Havasupai Indian Reservation and the Navajo Nation. The major tourist destination are located in Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim) and Hualapai Indian Reservation (Grand Canyon West) – about 3.5 hours drive apart.

Summary: Grand Canyon National Park is home to much of the immense Grand Canyon, with its layered bands of red rock revealing millions of years of geological history. Viewpoints include Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station and architect Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio and her Desert View Watchtower. Lipan Point, with wide views of the canyon and Colorado River, is a popular, especially at sunrise and sunset. Grand Canyon West is a major tourist attraction for the Skywalk exhibit as well as Zipline and Helicopter rides over the Canyon.

Get Around

Driving: While personal vehicles can access many parts of the park, some areas, especially during peak season, are accessible only by park shuttle buses to reduce congestion.

Shuttle Buses: The National Park Service provides free shuttle bus services that cover various routes around the South Rim. These shuttles connect visitor centers, viewpoints, and trailheads.

Bicycles: Biking can be a great way to explore the park, especially on the Greenway Trail. There’s also a bike rental service near the visitor center.

Walking: Many of the park’s viewpoints and attractions are connected by the Rim Trail, which offers an excellent opportunity for walking and taking in the views at your own pace.

Tours: Various commercial operators offer guided bus tours, helicopter rides, and even rafting experiences in and around the Grand Canyon, which can provide a different perspective and additional information about the park.

Remember, the Grand Canyon’s vastness and altitude can pose challenges. Always stay hydrated, be aware of the weather conditions, and ensure you’re adequately prepared for any hikes or activities. 

Speak

English is the dominant language in USA.

Stay

Best Places To Stay Near Grand Canyon South Rim

Tusayan – 6.5 miles / 10 minutes drive.

Valle (Grand Canyon Junction) – 28.7 miles / 35 minutes.

Williams – 59 miles / 1 hour.

Flagstaff – 79 miles / 1 hour 30 minutes.

Best Places To Stay Near Grand Canyon West

Hualapai Reservation – This Native American Reservation has hotel accommodations in the town of Peach Springs as well as Cabins at the Hualapai Ranch very close to Grand Canyon Skywalk, Guano Point and Zip-line activities.

Havasupai Lodge – One of only two hotels inside the Grand Canyon. Located on the Havasupai Reservation in Supai village the lodge is 2 miles from Havasu Falls.

Seligman – Seligman, Arizona is a small town that offers several hotel and lodging options near the West Rim for visitors heading to Havasu Falls or Diamond Creek for a one-day Grand Canyon rafting trip on the Hualapai Reservation.

Meadview – Meadview is a small town next to Lake Mead on the way to Grand Canyon West. Aside from Hualapai Ranch Cabins, this is the closest lodging to Grand Canyon West and the Grand Canyon Skywalk.

Kingman – Kingman is a larger town on Interstate I-40 about 1.5h drive to Grand Canyon West. The town maybe a bit crowded and not as scenic but has more options for budget accommodations.

Taste

Grand Canyon West (West Rim)

  • Skywalk Cafe: Located near the Grand Canyon Skywalk in the West Rim, this eatery offers a simple menu with sandwiches, salads, and snacks. It’s a convenient spot to grab a bite if you’re touring the Skywalk.
  • Guano Point Cafe: Also situated in the West Rim, this cafe provides visitors with basic meal options coupled with stunning views of the canyon.
  • Hualapai Ranch: This is a Western-themed area in the West Rim where you can experience cowboy entertainment and enjoy Western-style meals.

Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

  • El Tovar Dining Room: Located in the historic El Tovar Hotel, this restaurant offers a more upscale dining experience with a mix of traditional and contemporary dishes. Given its prime location on the rim, it’s recommended to make reservations in advance.
  • Bright Angel Lodge: This spot provides both a restaurant and a more casual cafe. The lodge’s dining room offers a variety of dishes, from steaks to vegetarian options, while the adjacent Bright Angel Fountain offers quick bites like ice cream and sandwiches.
  • Maswik Food Court: Located in the Maswik Lodge, this food court provides a range of options, including pizza, grill items, and a cafeteria-style selection of hot and cold dishes.
  • Yavapai Lodge Restaurant: Situated a bit away from the rim, this restaurant in the Yavapai Lodge offers a relaxed dining atmosphere with a variety of American dishes.

While these dining options provide the essentials and a bit of variety, part of the experience is the setting itself. There’s something profoundly memorable about enjoying a meal with the Grand Canyon as your backdrop. Remember to carry snacks and water if you’re venturing out on hikes or longer explorations.

Visit

Skywalk: Located at the West Rim, this horseshoe-shaped glass bridge extends over the canyon, offering a unique perspective and a thrilling walk 4,000 feet above the canyon floor.

Bright Angel Trail: One of the most popular trails in the National Park, it provides stunning views as you descend into the canyon. There are rest houses and water stations at intervals, making it suitable for both short hikes and longer treks.

South Kaibab Trail: Offering panoramic views, this trail is another favorite for those looking to delve deep into the canyon’s beauty. Remember, there’s no water available on this trail, so plan accordingly.

Grand Canyon Village: A hub for amenities and historical buildings, it’s the primary visitor center for the South Rim. Key spots include the El Tovar Hotel, Hopi House, and Kolb Studio.

Yavapai Point and Geology Museum: One of the best panoramic views of the canyon’s expanse can be found here. The adjacent museum offers insights into the canyon’s geological history.

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