The Grand Canyon is a steep-sided canyon carved by the Colorado River in Arizona, United States. The Grand Canyon is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. The Grand Canyon is considered one of the World’s Seven Natural Wonders. The Grand Canyon is over a mile (1.6 kilometers) deep and 446 miles (718 kilometers) long.

The Grand Canyon is home to a variety of plant and animal life. The most common animals in the Grand Canyon are deer, squirrels, rabbits, coyotes, lizards, snakes, and birds. Plants that grow in the Grand Canyon include cacti, yucca plants, and Joshua trees.

Europeans first explored the Grand Canyon in the late 1500s. The first person to see the Grand Canyon was Spanish explorer Garcia Lopez de Cardenas. American soldiers were the first to reach the bottom of the Grand Canyon in 1869. The Grand Canyon became a national park in 1919.

Today, millions of people visit the Grand Canyon each year. Visitors can explore the canyon by foot, mule, raft, or helicopter. The Grand Canyon is famous for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.

When is The Best time to visit the Grand Canyon?

While the Grand Canyon is fantastic any time of year, certain times are better than others to visit. The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is in the spring or fall when the weather is milder and there are fewer crowds. 

The busiest time at the park is during the summer, so if you can avoid visiting, you’ll have a much more enjoyable experience.

Winter is also a great time to visit, as the snow-capped peaks of the canyon make for spectacular scenery. However, it can be pretty cold at the bottom of the canyon, so be sure to dress warmly. Winter is also the quietest time at the park, so you’ll be able to enjoy more peace and solitude.

Sunset and rainbows over the Grand Canyon
Sunset and rainbows over the Grand Canyon – the view from the southeast rim | @spencerwelling

If you’re planning to visit the south rim of the Grand Canyon, it is open all year round. However, the best time to visit is between mid-April to mid-October. You’ll have access to all the park’s facilities and services during this time. The weather is also milder during this period, making it more enjoyable to explore the canyon.

The north rim of the Grand Canyon is open from mid-May to mid-October. This month is the best time to visit as all the park’s facilities, and services are available. The weather is also milder during this period, making exploring the canyon more enjoyable.

The west rim of the Grand Canyon is also open all year round. However, the best time to visit is between mid-April to mid-October. By visiting the park during this time, you’ll be able to take advantage of all its facilities and services. In addition, the weather will be more moderate, making it a more pleasant experience overall.

If you want to avoid crowds, the best time to visit the Grand Canyon is during the week. Weekends are the busiest times at the park. If you can only stay on the weekends, try to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Appreciating the view over horseshoe bend
Appreciating the view over horseshoe bend | @crunkcandy

When is the best time to see wildlife at the Grand Canyon?

The best time to see wildlife at the Grand Canyon is early morning or late evening. It is during this time when most animals are active.

If you want to see specific animals, such as deer or elk, spring or fall is the best time to visit. These are the times of the year when these animals are most active.

For birdwatching, the best time to visit is during the winter. This is when many birds migrate to the Grand Canyon.

Moody skies over the Grand Canyon
Moody skies over the Grand Canyon | @ristypics

When is the most affordable time to visit?

The most affordable time to visit the Grand Canyon is during the low season, from mid-September to mid-November and mid-January to early March. Hotel rates are typically lower during these times so that you can save money on accommodation.

During the low season, you can also find cheaper flights to the Grand Canyon. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, try booking your trip during these times.

What to Know Before You Go

There are a few things to keep in mind before you visit the Grand Canyon.

  • First, the Grand Canyon is located in a remote area. The nearest city is Flagstaff, Arizona, about an hour and a half drive from the park. You’ll either need to drive or take a shuttle from Flagstaff to reach the park.
  • The second thing to know is that the Grand Canyon is massive! It can take days or even weeks to explore the entire park. Be sure to plan accordingly and allow yourself enough time to see everything you want.
  • Another thing to keep in mind is that the Grand Canyon is a desert. Temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) during summer. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks if you plan to go hiking.
  • Be sure to dress in layers as the temperature can vary greatly depending on the time of day and season. The summers can be pretty hot, so bring plenty of sunscreen and water. In the winter, it can be pretty cold, so dress warmly.
  • Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing much walking.
  • Be sure to bring your camera, as the Grand Canyon is a photographer’s paradise.
  • Lastly, check the weather forecast before going, as the conditions can change quickly. However, the Grand Canyon is fabulous any time of year, so don’t let the perfect time stop you from visiting this natural wonder.

What are some of the best things to do at the Grand Canyon?

Hiking

Hiking is one of the most popular things to do. There are trails for all skill levels, from easy walks to multi-day backpacking trips. Popular courses include the Bright Angel Trail, South Kaibab Trail, and North Rim Trails. If you want to hike, the spring and fall months are the best times. Be sure to wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water.

Mule Rides

For a unique way to see the canyon, take a mule ride. You can ride along the rim of the canyon or even down into the depths of the canyon. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as spots fill up quickly. If you want to take a mule ride, the best time to go is in the summer or fall when it’s not too hot. The best place to start is at the Bright Angel Lodge.

Scenic Drives

You can still see the Grand Canyon from your car if you don’t want to hike or take a mule ride. There are two main scenic drives: the South Rim Drive and the North Rim Drive. The South Rim Drive is open all year round, while the North Rim Drive is only open from May to October. Be sure to take your time and enjoy the views!

Grand Canyon Railway

For a truly unique experience, take a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway. This historic train takes you to the Grand Canyon Village from Williams, Arizona. The journey takes about two and a half hours, and you’ll enjoy stunning canyon views. The best time to take the train is in the fall when the leaves change color.

Rafting

For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, go whitewater rafting down the Colorado River. Rafting is one of the best ways to see the Grand Canyon; you’ll get a thrill simultaneously! You can choose from various trip lengths, from one-day floats to multi-week expeditions. Many different companies offer rafting trips. Be sure to make reservations in advance and bring plenty of sunblock, hats, and water. The best time to go rafting is in the spring or fall when the weather is more relaxed and the water is high.

Rafting between the canyons
Rafting between the canyons | @iflnationalparks

Helicopter Tours

For breath-taking views of the Grand Canyon, take a helicopter tour. These tours give you a bird’s eye view of the canyon and are a great way to see everything in a short amount of time. If you want a helicopter tour, the best time is in the summer or fall. Having helicopter tours are great, but they are weather permitting.

Exploring the south rim of the Grand Canyon

The south rim is the park’s most popular area and is accessible year-round. There are plenty of things to do here, including hiking, biking, and scenic drives. Be sure to stop at some of the lookout points to get the best views of the canyon.

Visit the northern rim of the Grand Canyon.

This area is only accessible from mid-May to mid-October due to weather conditions. It’s a bit more remote than the south rim, so you’ll find fewer crowds here. The north rim offers stunning views of the canyon, and there are plenty of hiking and camping opportunities.

Camping

One of the best ways to experience the Grand Canyon is by camping under the stars. There are several campgrounds within the park. It also has a backcountry camping option for those who want to get away from it all. Be sure to obtain a permit if you plan to camp in the backcountry.

Going to the Grand Canyon Skywalk

The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a glass bridge extending 70 feet over the canyon’s edge. It’s located on the park’s west side and is only accessible via helicopter or a long hike. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and there is an additional fee to use the skywalk.

The Grand Canyon by night
The Grand Canyon by night | @missjessbess

Where should I stay when visiting the Grand Canyon?

There are plenty of accommodation options near the Grand Canyon. You can camp inside the park in nearby cabins, hotels, lodges, or nearby cabins. Some famous places to stay are Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, and Phantom Ranch. All three of these places are located on the park’s south rim. They offer different amenities, so check in advance to see what each one offers.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, try staying at one of the ranch resorts on the North Rim of the park. These resorts offer horseback riding, hayrides, and other cowboy-themed activities. Resorts like the Grand Canyon Ranch Resort and the Forever Resorts Cabins at Grand Canyon West offer a one-of-a-kind experience.

Bright skies in Bryce Canyon, Utah
Bright skies in Bryce Canyon, Utah | @moemoe.wandering

Is the Grand Canyon safe?

The Grand Canyon is a safe place to visit, but there are some things to keep in mind. Be sure to stay on designated trails and lookout points.

  • A canyon is a big place, and it’s easy to get lost if you’re not paying attention.
  • Be aware of the weather conditions and plan accordingly. The temperature can vary greatly, depending on the time of year and elevation.
  • Be cautious when hiking and camping. There are some areas of the canyon that are more remote than others. It’s always best to hike with a friend and let someone know where you’re going.

Conclusion

The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. It’s a beautiful place with plenty of things to do. Whether you want to hike, camp, raft, or take in stunning views, the Grand Canyon has something for everyone. The Grand Canyon is a fantastic place, and there’s no wrong time to visit. No matter when you choose to visit, make sure you come prepared with plenty of water and snacks, as there are no services inside the park. And be sure to take plenty of pictures – the Grand Canyon is a sight you’ll never forget! With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a wonderful trip to the Grand Canyon!