Grand Canyon
Arizona
A mile-deep, 277-mile-long chasm revealing two billion years of Earth’s history.
Photos
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Weather & forecast
Highlights
Mather Point
The classic first view of the canyon, steps from the main visitor center.
Bright Angel Trail
The park’s most famous trail, switchbacking below the South Rim.
Desert View Watchtower
A 1932 stone tower with sweeping views toward the eastern canyon.
Hermit Road
A scenic western drive with overlook after overlook (shuttle-only in season).
Famous routes & hikes
South Rim Trail
A mostly paved, largely flat rim walk linking viewpoints and shuttle stops.
Bright Angel Trail
A steep descent into the canyon—remember the climb out takes twice as long.
Desert View Drive
An eastbound rim drive linking overlooks and the Desert View Watchtower.
Practical guidance
Best time to visit
Spring and fall for comfortable temperatures; summer is hot and busy.
Typical visit
1–3 days
Come prepared
- Never attempt rim-to-river-to-rim in a single day
- Carry far more water than you expect
- Book South Rim lodging well in advance
Good to know
- North Rim facilities close mid-October to mid-May
- Inner-canyon heat can be dangerous in summer
Fun facts
The canyon is 277 river miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and a mile deep.
Rocks at the bottom of the canyon are nearly two billion years old.
The North Rim sits over 1,000 feet higher than the South Rim and closes in winter.