by Admin
The Grand Canyon, one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders of the world, is much more than just a vast, mile-deep, 10-mile-wide gorge of multicolored rock. It offers a rich blend of historical landmarks, Native American culture, abundant wildlife, and a wide range of sightseeing opportunities and activities. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventure-packed trip, this guide presents the top 10 things to do at and near the Grand Canyon, ensuring you experience the best this breathtaking region has to offer.
For travelers staying in nearby Southern Utah vacation rentals, such as those found at Stay Copper Rock, the Grand Canyon is an accessible and enriching day trip or weekend destination. This guide will also help visitors tailor their experience for a memorable journey, with tips on how to maximize every moment in this iconic landscape.
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon, located in Arizona, is the most popular and accessible area for tourists. It is approximately a three and a half hour drive from Phoenix and about four and a half hours from Las Vegas, making it a perfect destination for those staying in Southern Utah seeking an unforgettable day trip or overnight experience.
Grand Canyon National Park offers iconic, sweeping outlooks over the canyon, numerous walking trails, and year-round accessibility. At a current entrance fee of $30 per vehicle, visitors gain access to a host of amenities including a comprehensive visitor center where you can find information on excursions, hiking routes, and aerial tours such as plane and helicopter rides.
One of the highlights at the South Rim is the Market Plaza, which features souvenirs and authentic Native American handcrafts. For a cinematic experience, the IMAX theater presents a stunning film that simulates soaring above the canyon, giving visitors a breathtaking perspective of the vast landscape.
Transportation within the park is made easy with free shuttle buses that run on a schedule, connecting major viewpoints and trailheads. This service is ideal for visitors who want to explore comfortably without worrying about parking or long walks between attractions.
For a truly unique and immersive experience, consider a traditional mule ride into the Grand Canyon. Available on both the North and South Rims, these rides offer a different vantage point, taking you below the rim to explore the canyon’s depths. Two main options are available: a shorter two-hour ride along the rim and a longer, overnight excursion that ventures deep into the canyon.
These mule rides provide a glimpse of the canyon that few tourists get to see—its interior. The rugged terrain and spectacular views from below are unforgettable. Several tour companies operate in both regions, but it’s important to check for health and weight restrictions before booking, as these rides can be physically demanding.
Beneath the rock layers of the Grand Canyon lies a treasure trove of waterfalls and unique rock formations accessible only by the Colorado River. Whether you crave the adrenaline rush of whitewater rafting or prefer a gentler, smooth water trip, the area has options for both.
Tour companies offer rafting excursions ranging from single-day adventures to multi-day trips. These tours can last approximately 12 hours or more and provide a thrilling way to experience the canyon’s grandeur from the river itself. In addition to the natural river, visitors can explore nearby Lake Powell, a man-made reservoir with beautiful blue waters contrasting the desert landscape.
Note that these rafting experiences, while unforgettable, can be costly and require a full day commitment, so planning ahead is essential to make the most of your trip.
Just an hour from Grand Canyon National Park, the Arizona Wildlife Park offers 160 acres of natural habitat dedicated to the wildlife of the region. Situated just off historic Route 66, this park allows visitors to take a scenic drive through pine forests and canyon formations while observing indigenous animals roaming freely.
The park is home to a variety of species including burros, black bears, longhorn sheep, bison, wolves, and bobcats. In addition to the drive-through experience, there is a walk-through trail featuring exhibits and live shows that highlight birds of prey native to the region.
With an entrance fee of around $25 per adult, this attraction is ideal for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike. For more details and to plan your visit, check out the Arizona Wildlife Park website.
The South Rim is not only about natural beauty but also rich in historic landmarks worth exploring. One such place is El Tovar, a premier hotel built in 1905 designed to resemble a Swiss villa. Over the years, it has hosted many celebrities and remains an architectural gem.
Another must-visit is the Desert View Watchtower, a 70-foot tower constructed in 1932. It is free to climb and offers incredible panoramic views, making it a favorite spot for photographers. Nearby, the Grand View Lookout Tower, built in 1914 and perched precariously on the canyon’s edge, provides a thrilling vantage point.
For a blend of history and culture, the Hopi House, built in 1905 in a Native American adobe style, now serves as a gift shop offering authentic Native American crafts and souvenirs.
For visitors venturing to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, a visit to the Yavapai Geology Museum is highly recommended. The museum features exhibits that explain the geological history of the canyon, including a detailed topographic model that shows the deposition of rock layers and the natural carving of the Grand Canyon by the Colorado River over millions of years.
This museum provides a fascinating educational experience, helping visitors appreciate the immense natural forces that shaped this extraordinary landscape.
Although Monument Valley is about a four-hour drive from the North Rim, it is well worth the trip. This iconic region is rich with Navajo heritage and features some of the most stunning rock formations in the American Southwest.
Travelers can choose to drive themselves or join guided tours offered by local companies. These tours provide in-depth insights into Navajo culture along with breathtaking views of the valley’s mesas and buttes. Monument Valley is a perfect complement to a Grand Canyon trip for those wanting to dive deeper into the cultural and natural beauty of the region.
The Skywalk is the most popular tourist attraction on the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. It is a horseshoe-shaped transparent glass bridge that extends 70 feet over the canyon’s rim, providing visitors with unique views straight down into the gorge below.
Built by the Hualapai Tribe, the Skywalk offers more than just a thrilling walkway. The site includes an authentic Native American village where visitors can explore cultural exhibits and shop for unique handcrafted souvenirs. Daily live entertainment features Native American dances in the amphitheater at 1 PM and 5 PM, adding a vibrant cultural experience to the visit.
The East Rim of the Grand Canyon offers a different perspective, with a stronger emphasis on the Colorado River and sacred Navajo tribal lands. One of the most spectacular points of interest accessible only by boat is the Rainbow Bridge, one of the largest natural bridges in the world.
Standing over 290 feet tall and spanning 270 feet across, this sandstone arc is considered holy by the Navajo people. It is believed to be responsible for creating clouds, rainbows, and rain—the essence of desert life. Visitors can also explore other nearby landmarks such as the Navajo Bridge and the Little Colorado River Tribal Park.
Booking a tour with a company familiar with the area is the best way to visit these sacred sites respectfully and safely.
Antelope Canyon has become a bucket-list destination for travelers visiting the Grand Canyon region. Known locally as a slot canyon, it is a sandstone formation resembling a cave but without a roof. The canyon’s narrow, winding corridors create a surreal landscape of meandering shapes and vibrant colors that shift and move with the sunlight.
This location is a paradise for photographers, whether professional or amateur, due to its unique play of light and shadow. Tours of Antelope Canyon are highly popular and fill up quickly, so it is essential to book well in advance to secure a spot.
For those staying in Southern Utah, the Grand Canyon is within striking distance and offers an array of activities from scenic overlooks and historic sites to thrilling adventures like mule rides and river rafting. Southern Utah vacation rentals, especially around St. George and nearby areas, provide comfortable and luxurious home bases for exploring this iconic region.
Choosing a vacation rental with amenities such as a full kitchen and outdoor living spaces can enhance your Grand Canyon trip, allowing for relaxation after long days of exploration. Many rentals near Zion National Park and Southern Utah’s red rock country also offer concierge services to help plan your excursions.
Explore Grand Canyon Vacation Rentals
The South Rim is the most accessible and popular, offering numerous viewpoints, visitor services, and year-round accessibility. The North Rim is less crowded but only open from mid-May to mid-October and requires a longer drive.
Mule rides are generally safe but have weight and health restrictions. They may not be suitable for very young children or those with certain medical conditions. Always check with tour providers before booking.
No, Antelope Canyon is located on Navajo land and requires a guided tour to visit. Booking early is essential due to high demand.
Visitors often spend at least one full day exploring the South Rim. For more in-depth experiences like rafting, mule rides, and visiting the North Rim or Monument Valley, plan multiple days.
Yes, while accommodations inside the park are limited, nearby towns and Southern Utah offer a wide range of vacation rentals. Check out Stay Copper Rock for luxury rentals that provide a comfortable base for your Grand Canyon adventures.
For travelers looking to extend their trip beyond the Grand Canyon, Southern Utah offers spectacular destinations such as Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and Arches National Park, all within a few hours’ drive. Each park offers unique landscapes and experiences that complement the grandeur of the Grand Canyon.
Explore our guides on Zion National Park vacation rentals and Southern Utah’s top must-do activities to plan a well-rounded adventure filled with hiking, wildlife viewing, and cultural discoveries.
Whether you seek thrilling outdoor adventures or tranquil moments soaking in the stunning vistas, the Grand Canyon and its surrounding region promise memories that will last a lifetime.
For travelers and outdoor enthusiasts planning a visit to the Grand Canyon, hiking the South Kaibab Trail offers an unforgettable adventure into... Read More
The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States, drawing millions of visitors every year. For... Read More
Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the United States, drawing millions of visitors each year... Read More
STAY COPPER ROCK
1567 W Copper Rock Pkwy
Hurricane, UT 84737
435-352-1842
Join The Discussion