Best Things to Do in Grand Canyon National Park

One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world, Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is a bucket-list destination for millions of visitors every year. Spanning 277 miles in length, reaching 18 miles in width, and plunging to over a mile deep, the canyon showcases millions of years of geological history carved by the mighty Colorado River.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a casual visitor, the Grand Canyon offers countless ways to explore its breathtaking landscapes. From scenic viewpoints and iconic trails to rafting the Colorado River and experiencing Native American heritage, here are the best things to do at Grand Canyon National Park.

1. Take in the Views from South Rim Overlooks

• Best For: First-time visitors, photography, and easy access

• Must-See Viewpoints: Mather Point, Desert View, Yavapai Point, Hopi Point

The South Rim is the most visited area of the park and offers some of the most breathtaking vistas of the canyon. Visitors can explore numerous scenic overlooks, each providing a unique perspective of the landscape.

Mather Point, located near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, is often the first stop for many visitors. For one of the best sunset views, head to Hopi Point along the Rim Trail. Meanwhile, Desert View Watchtower, on the eastern end of the South Rim, provides a panoramic view of the canyon and the Colorado River.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Arrive early for sunrise—the South Rim is crowded during peak hours.
✔️ Use the free shuttle buses to avoid parking issues at busy viewpoints.
✔️ Bring a pair of binoculars for a closer look at the canyon walls and river below.

2. Hike the Bright Angel Trail

• Hike Distance: Up to 12 miles round trip (turnaround at Indian Garden or Plateau Point)

• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous

• Best For: Hikers looking for a well-maintained but challenging trail into the canyon

The Bright Angel Trail is one of the most famous hikes in the Grand Canyon, descending deep into the canyon with spectacular views at every turn. The trail starts near Bright Angel Lodge and offers several turnaround points, making it suitable for various hiking levels.

For a shorter day hike, turn around at 1.5-Mile Resthouse or Indian Garden. More experienced hikers can continue to Plateau Point, offering incredible views of the Colorado River.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Start early—the trail gets extremely hot, especially in summer.
✔️ Bring plenty of water and salty snacks to stay hydrated.
✔️ Mules use this trail—step aside when they pass.

3. Experience the Grand Canyon Skywalk at the West Rim

• Location: Grand Canyon West (not inside the national park)

• Best For: Thrill-seekers and unique perspectives of the canyon

For a heart-pounding experience, visit the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends 70 feet over the canyon’s edge. Located in Grand Canyon West, this attraction is operated by the Hualapai Tribe and offers a stunning perspective of the canyon floor below.

Though not part of the national park, it’s a popular alternative for visitors coming from Las Vegas (just a 2-hour drive).

Insider Tips:

✔️ No personal cameras are allowed on the Skywalk (official photos are available for purchase).
✔️ Tickets can be pricey—consider whether the experience is worth the cost.
✔️ Combine with other West Rim attractions, like Guano Point and Eagle Point.

4. Drive Desert View Scenic Road

• Length: 23 miles (South Rim, east entrance)

• Best For: A relaxed, scenic drive with fewer crowds

For a less crowded alternative to the main viewpoints, drive along Desert View Scenic Road, which stretches from Grand Canyon Village to the park’s east entrance. Along the way, you’ll find several breathtaking overlooks, including Grandview Point, Moran Point, and Lipan Point.

At the end of the drive, Desert View Watchtower, designed by architect Mary Colter, provides one of the best panoramic views of the canyon and the Colorado River.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Stop at Lipan Point for one of the best sunrise or sunset views.
✔️ Bring a picnic—this area is quieter and perfect for a scenic meal.
✔️ Check out the historic Desert View Watchtower—it features Native American artwork inside.

5. Raft the Colorado River

• Best For: Adventure seekers and those wanting a unique perspective of the canyon

• Options: One-day smooth water float trips to multi-day whitewater rafting trips

For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, rafting the Colorado River offers a completely different way to experience the canyon.

For beginners, smooth water float trips through Glen Canyon provide a peaceful ride with incredible scenery. For those seeking more adrenaline, multi-day whitewater rafting trips take you through rapids, waterfalls, and remote sections of the canyon.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Book well in advance—rafting trips can sell out a year in advance.
✔️ Shorter options (like the half-day Horseshoe Bend rafting trip) are available.
✔️ Multi-day trips require permits and proper planning.

6. Watch the Sunset at Hopi Point

• Best For: Photographers and sunset lovers

For one of the most stunning sunset views in the Grand Canyon, head to Hopi Point. Located along Hermit Road, this overlook extends farther out into the canyon than most other viewpoints, offering unobstructed, breathtaking views of the sun setting over the vast landscape.

Insider Tips:

✔️ Arrive at least 45 minutes early to secure a good spot.
✔️ Use the shuttle bus (cars are restricted on Hermit Road).
✔️ Stay a bit longer after sunset for stunning twilight colors.

7. Explore the North Rim (for a Quieter Experience)

• Best For: Visitors wanting to escape the crowds

• Season: Open mid-May to mid-October (closed in winter)

The North Rim offers a completely different experience from the busy South Rim. With fewer crowds, higher elevations, and dense forests, it feels like a hidden gem within the Grand Canyon.

Must-see spots include Bright Angel Point, Cape Royal, and Point Imperial (the highest viewpoint in the park at 8,800 feet).

Insider Tips:

✔️ The North Rim is only open seasonally due to snow.
✔️ Lodging is limited—book accommodations early.
✔️ It takes over 4 hours to drive from the South Rim to the North Rim.