19 Best Things To Do In South Rim Grand Canyon

If you’re looking for things to do in South Rim Grand Canyon in Arizona you’ve come to the right place.

The Grand Canyon National Park is understandably on many people’s USA bucket lists. This absolutely huge canyon in Northern Arizona is full of incredible scenic viewpoints, hike and there are plenty of things to do at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Though the Grand Canyon National Park, Az is split into five sections; east, west rim and Grand Canyon west, north rim, and south rim, the South Rim is one of the most popular sections to visit as it’s not too far away from big cities and still offers plenty of hiking trails and things to do including the west and east rims and the north if you’re doing a Rim to Rim (to Rim) hike!

It was the South Rim of Grand Canyon that we ended up visiting during our 3-month road trip in the US, it didn’t fail to blow us away despite us having been absolutely spoilt with amazing landscapes and views before our trip to the Grand Canyon National Park.

The sheer scale of the Grand Canyon, in Arizona is almost impossible to comprehend. What that does mean, however, is that there are absolutely tonnes of things to do in the Grand Canyon National Park.

From viewpoints to unique things to do in Grand Canyon such as mule rides, helicopter tours, and fantastic hikes, you’re sure to love it.

If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon here are some of the best things to do in the Grand Canyon South Rim.

The Four Regions of the Grand Canyon

Most people think of the Grand Canyon in terms of North Rim and South Rim. However, there are a few other areas of the Grand Canyon including the Grand Canyon East and Grand Canyon West.

This blog and Grand Canyon travel guide includes what to do on the East and West Rims too since they’re so close to the main South Rim area that they’re often considered to be one place.

• South Rim: The most popular section of Grand Canyon National Park is the South Rim area. This includes Mather Point & Grand Canyon Village
• West Rim: Accessed via the South Entrance along Hermit Road or West Rim Drive and includes many of the best overlooks in the park.
• Grand Canyon West: Grand Canyon West is the most recently developed section of the Grand Canyon and is managed by the Hualapai Tribe. This is where you’ll find the Grand Canyon Skywalk.
• North Rim: Across the canyon from the south rim, the north rim of the Grand Canyon has become increasingly popular in recent years. It’s only 10 miles across the canyon from South Rim but the drive to the north rim from the south rim takes about 4 hours.
• East Rim: The east section refers to the area near the east entrance to Grand Canyon National Park which includes the Desert View Watchtower.

Best things to do at the Grand Canyon South Rim

Grand Canyon Maps

Below are a couple of maps of the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim. The first (left) is the official park map and shows various South Rim attractions.

The second (right) is my map that I’ve put together where you can find all the best things to do in the Grand Canyon including the best hikes, museums and viewpoints.

For those of you wondering what to see in the Grand Canyon in one day then check out this list as well as the Grand Canyon itineraries further into this post.

As long as you don’t want to do a long hike then you can do pretty much everything below in 1 day at the South Rim. Consider this as your Grand Canyon trip planner.

1. Gaze out at the canyon from Desert View

One of the most enjoyable parts of your Grand Canyon trip will be the incredible views!

We entered the Grand Canyon’s South Rim from the East which meant the first part we got to was the Desert View which is one of the best views of the Grand Canyon.

It’s a pretty good place to start your Grand Canyon experience that’s for sure because Desert View Drive has some of the park’s most beautiful scenery and attractions including Desert Viewpoint (one of the best in the park), Desert Watchtower, Navajo Point, Lipan Point, Moran Point, Grandview Point, Shoshone Point, Yaki Point, the Tusayan Museum & access to the South Kaibab Trail including Ooh Aah Point which is the major hike we did during our visit.

2. Climb to the top of the Desert View Watchtower

At Desert View, there’s a 70ft tall Watchtower that gives you some great views of the Grand Canyon and gives a better size of its scale. From the top of its 5-storeys, you can see over 100 miles away on a clear day!

The Watchtower isn’t an original which is slightly disappointing, but it’s still cool and one of the best things to do at the South Rim Grand Canyon.

This version was designed in 1932 and is a replica of prehistoric towers that have been found in the Colorado Plateau. It also has beautiful murals of tribal artwork and pictographs.

 3. See Ooh Aah Point

Ooh Aah Point at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim is one of the most beautiful spots in the park to take in the views. The point is marked by a wooden sign and it’s a spot you certainly can’t miss.

I meant really, the name, Ooh Aah, says it all and it’s truly one of the best things to do in South Rim Grand Canyon National Park.

Reaching Ooh Aah Point takes a bit of effort as you’ll need to make your way down the South Kaibab Trail descending roughly 600 feet below the canyon rim.

Prepare for a steep climb back up but be assured that the effort is worth every sweat drop.

4. Walk some of the South Rim trails

One of the best things to do in the Grand Canyon is to take a walk along the South Rim Trail.

This trail snakes along the rim of the canyon, with spectacular, heart-stopping views at every turn. The beauty of the South Rim trail is that it’s mostly flat and paved, making it easily accessible for most visitors.

The entire trail stretches for 13 miles, connecting Hermit’s Rest to the South Kaibab trailhead.

But don’t worry, you don’t have to do the whole thing!

You can choose a section that appeals to you and enjoy a casual stroll and if you get tired, just hop onto the Grand Canyon South Rim shuttle bus that can assist you in navigating your way along the trail.

Note: Parts near Hermit’s Rest get close to the edge. If you’re not a fan of heights, proceed with caution!

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

5. Stay in the park for sunset

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a sunset at the Grand Canyon.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky explodes into a kaleidoscope of colors. It’s definitely one of the must do things at the Grand Canyon.

Hopi Point, to the west of the South Rim, is a fantastic spot to soak in the sunset.

But remember, no matter where you are, the view will be breathtaking.

And don’t be in a hurry to leave as soon as the sun disappears. Stick around for a bit longer and watch as the sky gets even more vibrant!

6. Take a Helicopter Tour at the Grand Canyon South Rim

One of the best ways to see the Grand Canyon is by helicopter.

Though it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the experience is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that’ll leave you with a camera roll full of incredible photos.

Check out this 5* rated helicopter Grand Canyon tour.

7. Catch sunrise in the park

There are few things as pretty as a sunrise over the Grand Canyon.

As the first rays of the sun peek over the horizon, they illuminate the canyon’s rugged features making everything look even more dramatic.

The orange and pink hues reflecting off the rock formations mean getting out of bed is 100% worth it.

One of the popular spots to catch the sunrise is Mather Point. This scenic outlook at the Grand Canyon is a great place to watch the sky slowly lighten as the canyon comes to life.

However, it can get crowded, so be sure to arrive early for the best spot. Alternatively, Yaki Point is a quieter but equally great place to watch the sunrise at the Grand Canyon.

8. Yavapai Museum of Geology

Yavapai Museum of Geology is the best place to learn about how the Grand Canyon was formed.

This Grand Canyon museum is in the historic Yavapai Observation Station and it’s both a good place t warm up in winter or cool down in the summer while learning more about what you’re seeing.

I often think the more we know about something, the more interesting it becomes and that’s definitely true of the Grand Canyon.

The Yavapai Geology Museum has detailed graphics and relief maps and you can see the canyon itself through the windows.

• Opening hours: 8 am – 7 pm daily

9. See the view from Yaki Point

Make your way to Yaki Point on foot for another incredible view.

You can no longer drive to this part of the park, but it’s a short easy walk to get there and so, so worth it!

Yaki Point also gives you a great look over some of the most famous trails of the Grand Canyon. You can spot the Bright Angel Trail, and sections of the Tonto Trail, and admire the South Kaibab Trail as it winds along Cedar Ridge.

10. Hike into the Grand Canyon

One of the best Grand Canyon activities is to go hiking!

But, don’t take Grand Canyon hikes lightly, the climb back up is pretty steep so make sure you’re ready for it.

On average, hiking back up the trail will take you twice as long as it took you to hike down. Plus, it’s thirsty hot work so make sure you’ve got a lot of water with you.

There are a few great hikes in the South Rim of the Grand Canyon where you can hike down into the canyon itself.

The South Kaibab Trail

This is the trail we decided to hike, going down to Skeleton Point.

The South Kaibab Trail starts from the rim and ends at the Colorado River, it’s shorter and more intense than its sibling, the Bright Angel Trail. It stretches across 7 miles, with a considerable drop of 4800 feet.

The trail offers incredible panoramas of the Grand Canyon that make the effort well worth it. It was hiking this trail that gave me a chance to truly appreciate just how huge the canyon is.

To begin your adventure, take the Grand Canyon shuttle or stroll along the rim trail to the South Kaibab trailhead.

Here are a few day-hike options to consider:

• Ooh Aah Point: This is a 1.8 miles round trip that will reward you with an outstanding viewpoint. It’s steep but totally worth the climb.
• Cedar Ridge: A 3 miles round-trip will let you delve deeper into the canyon, unveiling mesmerizing views that keep evolving.
• Skeleton Point: The 6 miles round trip ends at a spot where you can spot the Colorado River for the first time. Do not go beyond this point for a day hike.

Explore the Bright Angel Trail

Right in the heart of the Grand Canyon Village AZ, is the popular Bright Angel Trail. This trail is 9.5 miles long and descends 4380 feet, ending near the Colorado River at the Bright Angel Campground.

Attempting to hike from the rim to the Colorado River and back in a day is highly discouraged by the National Park Service due to the risk of fatigue and heat exhaustion. But hiking a portion of the Bright Angel Trail can still be a great option, here are some options:

• 1.5 Mile Resthouse: A 3 miles round-trip trail from the Bright Angel Trailhead that rapidly descends from the rim through switchbacks. The view is decent, and the experience of going below the rim is unique.
• 3-Mile Resthouse: The 6 miles round-trip further descends into the canyon, but the views remain similar to the first option.
• Indian Garden: The 9 miles round-trip heads to a small campground with water. During summer, it’s best not to go beyond this point.
• Plateau Point: A longer 12 miles round-trip, it ends with a stunning view over the Colorado River.

For your safety, start early in the day, carry plenty of food and water, and allow plenty of time for the return hike. Don’t get tempted to go too far down into the canyon if you’re newer to hiking or are not sure about hiking in hot weather.

If you have to choose between Bright Angel and South Kaibab, I’d pick the South Kaibab since it has fewer crowds and has better, bigger views of teh canyon.

Hiking South Rim to Colorado River and Back

Over Two Days

You can combine the Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail into one long overnight hike.

If you do this you’ll typically spend one day going down into the canyon to the Colorado River and then stay overnight at Phantom Ranch or Bright Angel Campground, before going back up on day two.

To do this you’ll need a camping permit, or a Phantom Ranch reservation booked well in advance.

In One Day

While the National Park Service advises against it, it’s possible to hike from the South Rim to the Colorado River and back in one day if you’re very fit and used to hiking in hot weather conditions.

The entire round trip is 16.5 miles long, with a significant descent at the start and almost a mile of elevation gain at the end. This hike can be particularly dangerous during the summer months.

11. Camp (or Lodge) at the Bottom of the Grand Canyon

One of the best Grand Canyon South Rim things to do is to spend a night at the bottom.

However, this involves some planning and obtaining a special permit from the backcountry office. You have two options: camping or staying at the historic Phantom Ranch Lodge.

Both provide a unique perspective and allow you to wake up to the stunning beauty of the canyon walls surrounding you.

Do keep in mind that the bottom of the canyon can be significantly hotter than the rim, so pack your gear accordingly.

12. Take a Guided Ranger Tour

The Grand Canyon is a place of huge geological and biological significance, and one of the best ways to learn about its wonders is through a ranger-guided tour.

These tours, available daily on the South Rim, offer fascinating insights into the canyon’s geology and the various animals that inhabit it.

13. Ride a Mule into the Grand Canyon

If you’re up for some fun and adventure but hiking isn’t your thing, consider a mule ride into the Grand Canyon.

Available on the South Rim through Xanterra, these mule trips can be an unforgettable experience.

Rides can range from short, 1 or 2-hour trips through the pines of the Kaibab National Forest to twilight campfire and wagon rides.

If you’re up for the challenge, you can even ride a mule all the way down to the bottom of the canyon!

While this activity does require a bit of planning and can be quite popular (tickets are allocated via lottery), it’s certainly one of the most thrilling ways to experience the canyon’s size.

14. Walking the Trail of Time

The Trail of Time offers an interactive and educational way to explore the South Rim.

This easy and accessible 1.7-mile walk is actually part of the South Rim Trail and goes from Verkamp’s Visitor Center to the Yavapai Geological Museum.

Along the way, you’ll pass 13 information panels that give you details on the Grand Canyon’s geological history.

It’s said that every meter of the trail represents 1 million years of the canyon’s history, giving you a sense of the passage of time!

15. Discover the Tusayan Ruin

Once you’ve learned about the geological history, I recommend checking out the human history of the Grand Canyon.

The best place to do this is at the Tusayan Ruin next to the Tusayan Museum.

This archaeological site reveals that the Grand Canyon was home to human communities as far back as 12,000 years ago! And, although only the foundations remain today, it’s a poignant link to the area’s rich cultural history.

16. Ride the bus to Hermits Rest

The most scenic drive in the Grand Canyon’s South Rim is the drive to Hermits Rest.

The road is closed to private vehicles for most of the year, so you’ll need to take the free shuttle bus that operates regularly but it’s easy to do.

Starting at the South Rim and ending on the West Rim, this 7-mile route takes about 15-20 minutes each way, depending on how often you stop to take in the breathtaking views.

It ends at Hermits Rest which was one of my favorite spots in the park. I recommend getting out here to soak in the views.

Grand Canyon viewpoints on Hermit Road include:

• Trail View Overlook
• Maricopa Point
• Powell Point
• Hopi Point
• Mohave Point
• Monument Creek Vista
• Pima Point
• Hermits Rest

17. Find unique viewpoints by bike

For a more adventurous way to explore the Grand Canyon, consider renting a bike.

There are several viewpoints that aren’t accessible by car but can be reached by bike, making for a unique and unforgettable experience. If you don’t want to walk or take the bus, this is a great way to travel.

Plus, being able to say you biked in the Grand Canyon National Park is pretty cool in itself. It’s one of the most fun Grand Canyon South Rim activities.

18. Watch the Grand Canyon IMAX Movie

If you need a break from the heat or are looking for a more restful activity, visiting the Grand Canyon IMAX movie is one of the top things to do in the park.

There’s a 34-minute film shown at the IMAX theater in the Grand Canyon Visitor Center that gives you an interesting overview of the Grand Canyon.

If you’re looking for things to do in Grand Canyon Village at night this is a good option.

• Opening hours: 9 am to 8 pm, daily
• Ticket prices: From $10.95 for adults (save 20% when you buy online)

19. Soak in the Epic Overlooks at Mather Point & South Rim Viewpoints

Stepping out onto Mather Point and taking in the iconic view of the Grand Canyon is a must for any visitor.

However, the South Rim is home to many other fantastic viewpoints, many of which are less crowded than Mather Point.

Other South Rim Viewpoints include:

• Mary Coulter’s Lookout Studio
• Bright Angel Trailhead
• Grandview Point
• Yavapai Point
• Shoshone Point
• South Kaibab Trailhead
• Pipe Creek Vista
• Yaki Point

Ultimate Grand Canyon Itinerary Travel Plans

What to see in Grand Canyon South Rim in one day

Morning: Start your day early with a hike on either the South Kaibab Trail or the Bright Angel Trail. You should allow several hours for this and remember to pack plenty of sun protection and water.

Afternoon: Take the shuttle bus down to Hermits Rest. The route offers some of the best views of the canyon and includes several overlooks such as Maricopa Point, Hopi Point, and Pima Point. Make sure to get off the bus and explore these points for different perspectives of the canyon.

Evening: Finish your day at the Desert View Watchtower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the canyon. The tower also contains beautiful murals featuring tribal artwork and pictographs. As the day draws to a close, watch the sunset over the canyon, a sight that’s every bit as spectacular as the sunrise.

One day tours to the Grand Canyon

Are you looking for some Grand Canyon South Rim Tours? Taking a tour is a great way to see the Grand Canyon if you’re short on time or are traveling around the USA without a car.

Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas: If you’re visiting Las Vegas and haven’t hired a car you can do a day trip from  Las Vegas to Grand Canyon South Rim. Taking a tour like this makes it super easy to visit the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas. This is one of the top picks for a Grand Canyon day trip or take a look at the others below.

Tours to the West Rim and Grand Canyon Skywalk: One of the biggest Grand Canyon tourist attractions is the Skywalk which is at Grand Canyon West. If you’re travelling from Las Vegas, this is one of the best this South Rim Grand Canyon tours that picks you up and drops you off in Vegas and takes you to the Skywalk. Alternatively, you can get your Skywalk tickets here.

Grand Canyon in 2 Days

Day 1:

Morning: Begin your first day with sunrise at Mather Point, a breathtaking sight as the first rays of light touch the canyon. Next, head over to the Visitor Center to gather information, maps, and details about ranger-led activities that could enrich your trip.

Mid-Morning: Explore the Trail of Time. This 1.7-mile trail provides a unique geological timeline of the canyon’s formation, giving you a real sense of its immense age.

Afternoon: After lunch, take the shuttle bus to Hermit Road. Enjoy the scenic ride and stop at some of the numerous viewpoints along the way, such as Maricopa Point and Mohave Point.

Evening: Conclude your day at the Desert View Watchtower, absorbing panoramic views of the canyon and beautiful tribal artwork inside the tower. If you stay until sunset, you’re in for another spectacular light show.

Day 2:

Morning: Start your second day with a guided ranger tour. Learn more about the Grand Canyon’s geology and diverse wildlife from the experts themselves.

Mid-Morning to Afternoon: Embark on an unforgettable mule ride into the Grand Canyon. There are different options available, from short trips to full-day adventures. Remember to book ahead as these rides are popular.

Evening: Wind down at the Tusayan Ruin and Museum. These archaeological sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the Grand Canyon’s cultural history.

Night: Round off your 2-day visit with a night at the IMAX theater watching a film about the Grand Canyon, giving you even more appreciation of this magnificent natural wonder.

3 Days in the Grand Canyon

Day 1:

Morning: Arrive early to catch the sunrise at Mather Point, an iconic Grand Canyon experience. Next, stop by the Visitor Center for information about the park and its activities.

Mid-Morning: Follow the Trail of Time, an interactive exhibit that spans 1.7 miles and explains the geological history of the canyon.

Afternoon: After lunch, rent a bike to explore unique viewpoints and outlooks around the canyon that aren’t accessible by car.

Evening: Visit Desert View Watchtower to enjoy panoramic views of the canyon. The tower, designed by Mary Colter West, also houses beautiful tribal artwork and pictographs.

Day 2:

Morning: Take a guided ranger tour to deepen your understanding of the Grand Canyon’s geology and wildlife.

Mid-Morning: Begin your mule ride into the Grand Canyon. This is a unique and exciting way to explore the canyon’s depths, and options range from 1-hour rides to a full-day adventure.

Afternoon to Evening: Spend the rest of your day exploring Hermit Road by shuttle bus, stopping at various viewpoints like Hopi Point and Pima Point.

Day 3:

Morning: Start your day at Yavapai Point, one of the best spots to see the sunrise. From there, head to the Tusayan Ruin and Museum to dive into the cultural history of the Grand Canyon.

Afternoon: Relax in the afternoon by watching the Grand Canyon IMAX Movie. This film gives you a broader perspective on the formation and history of the canyon.

Evening: For your final evening, go to Shoshone Point. This less-visited overlook offers breathtaking views and a peaceful spot to watch your last Grand Canyon sunset.

Entrance fees to the Grand Canyon South Rim

If you’re wondering “How much does it cost to get into the South Rim of the Grand Canyon?”, here’s your answer.

Entrance fees to the Grand Canyon National Park cost $35 per car, this lasts for 7 days and includes both the North Rim and South Rim.

If you’re entering by foot, bike, or shuttle bus then the entrance fee is $20 per person.

If you’re visiting a few US National Parks over the course of a year then you’ll be better off buying the “America is Beautiful National Parks Pass” from REI for $80.

You can also now buy your Grand Canyon National Park pass online, or at the visitors’ centers in the following towns: Williams, Flagstaff, and the Tusayan National Geographic Visitor Centre (IMAX Theatre).

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

How to get to the Grand Canyon

Flights to the Grand Canyon South Rim

There are no direct flights into the Grand Canyon National Park itself, but you can fly into nearby airports and then drive or take a shuttle to the park.

• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX): This is the largest and busiest airport near the Grand Canyon, approximately 3.5 hours by car from the South Rim. Several major airlines serve this airport.
• Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG): About 1.5 hours from the South Rim, Flagstaff is the closest city with commercial service. It’s served by American Airlines and United Airlines with direct flights from Phoenix, Dallas, and Denver.
• Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS): If you’re also planning to visit Las Vegas, this might be a convenient option. The drive from Las Vegas to the South Rim takes approximately 4.5 hours.

From these airports, you can rent a car or use shuttle services to reach the Grand Canyon.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

Driving to the South Rim at the Grand Canyon

If you’re visiting the Grand Canyon as part of a longer road trip in America, or are coming by car, here are some basic driving directions.

• From Phoenix: Take I-17 North towards Flagstaff, then take I-40 West to Williams. From Williams, take AZ-64 North directly to the Grand Canyon.
• From Las Vegas: Start on US-93 South, then take I-40 East to Williams. Finally, take AZ-64 North to the South Rim.
• From Flagstaff: Take I-40 West to Williams, then take AZ-64 North to the park.

Remember to check the National Park Service website for the latest road conditions and possible closures before setting off on your drive.

Where to stay near the Grand Canyon South Rim

The good thing about the Grand Canyon being such a popular tourist attraction is that there are a lot of places to stay both within the National Park perimeter or just outside too.

Grand Canyon South Rim hotels

The best place to stay in the Grand Canyon is within the National Park itself! Here are the hotels inside the boundaries of the Grand Canyon South Rim.

• Yavapai Lodge: One of the best lodges at the Grand Canyon South Rim, just across the road from the Grand Canyon National Park Headquarters and very close to the Grand Canyon South Rim Visitor Center
• El Tovar Hotel: Includes coffee shop/café & a bar/lounge onsite, a good option for South Rim Grand Canyon hotels.
• Bright Angel Lodge: Gets 4.2/5, one of the highest-rated hotels by Grand Canyon South Rim
• Kachina Lodge: Great reviews & a free shuttle for a 25-mile radius
• Maswik Lodge: Onsite restaurant and complimentary shuttle
• Thunderbird Lodge: Right in the middle of Grand Canyon Village Arizona, has great views and is in a fab location

Glamping + Hotels near Grand Canyon South Rim (outside the park)

These Tusayan hotels near the Grand Canyon South Rim are all highly recommended on Booking.com. They also include glamping and camping options and are super close to the south rim entrance of the park.

• Grand Canyon RV Glamping: Offers a comfortable stay in Williams with amenities like free WiFi, private parking, air-conditioned rooms equipped with a flat-screen TV and a fridge, and offers activities like hiking.
• The Aztec Motel & Creative Space: Provides air-conditioned rooms with a desk and fridge in Seligman, and free WiFi and parking, 110 km from Ernest A Love Field Airport.
• Little America Hotel Flagstaff: A sprawling hotel located on 500 acres of Ponderosa Pine forest near I-40, offering free WiFi and airport shuttle service, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
• The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon: A 5-star hotel located 11 km from Grand Canyon Village in Tusayan, featuring non-smoking rooms, a restaurant, a bar, an indoor pool, and free WiFi.
• Under Canvas Grand Canyon: Located in Valle, offering unique tent accommodations with a restaurant on-site that serves locally sourced seasonal menu items.
• Clear Sky Resorts – Grand Canyon – Unique Sky Domes: Situated in Valle, 47 km from Grand Canyon Village, featuring unique dome accommodations, a bar, free private parking, and an American-style restaurant with a variety of dietary options.
• Wander Camp Grand Canyon: Offers tented camp accommodations in Valle Grand Canyon Junction Arizona, 24 km from Grand Canyon National Park Airport.

Camping at Grand Canyon South Rim

There are three Grand Canyon South Rim camping areas that allow you to go camping in Grand Canyon South Rim. There’s Mather Campground, Trailer Village, and Desert View Campground. The first two are within Grand Canyon Village and Desert View is 25 miles to the east.

• Mather Campground: Reservations recommended, no RV hookups, $18 per site, per night.
• Trailer Village: Has RV hookups, book here. Not owned by the National Parks Service (NPS) so has a few more amenities.
• Desert View Campground: First come, first served (no reservations), $12 per site, per night, no electric hookups. Camp spots are usually full by 12 pm. Closed in winter.

Grand Canyon Camping

If the campsites inside the Grand Canyon National Park are full then there are plenty of other RV parks and campgrounds just outside the Grand Canyon South Rim.

• Ten-X Campground: Just 4 miles south of the Grand Canyon South Rim entrance. Standard, non-electric sites are $10 per site, per night. Suitable for RV and tents.
• Grand Canyon Camper Village: In Tusayan, there’s the Grand Canyon Camper Village which is privately owned. RV sites with hookups are available.

Best time to visit the Grand Canyon

Visiting the Grand Canyon can be great at any time of year, but the best time for you will depend on your choices for what to do at Grand Canyon South Rim, as well as the weather you prefer.

Spring (March – May)

Spring is a great time to visit the Grand Canyon, as temperatures are relatively mild and the park isn’t as crowded as in the summer. Average high temperatures range from 54°F (12°C) in March to 70°F (21°C) in May, while average lows range from 23°F (-5°C) in March to 39°F (4°C) in May.

Summer (June – August)

This is the busiest time at the Grand Canyon, as families take advantage of school vacations. The weather can be quite hot, particularly in the Inner Canyon, where temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C).

At the South Rim, temperatures are cooler, with average highs ranging from 77°F (25°C) in June to 80°F (27°C) in July and August, and lows ranging from 42°F (6°C) in June to 54°F (12°C) in August.

Fall (September – November)

Fall is another fantastic time to visit, offering cooler temperatures and less crowding than in the summer. Average high temperatures fall from 73°F (23°C) in September to 53°F (12°C) in November, with lows ranging from 43°F (6°C) in September to 27°F (-3°C) in November.

Winter (December – February)

Winter at the Grand Canyon can be chilly, with average high temperatures ranging from 45°F (7°C) in December to 41°F (5°C) in February, and average lows from 19°F (-7°C) to 18°F (-8°C).

Snowfall is common, particularly in January and February, which can add to the beauty of the park but also pose challenges for hiking and other activities.

FAQs about planning a Grand Canyon South Rim day trip

Final thoughts on things to do in Grand Canyon South Rim

The Grand Canyon’s South Rim is one of the best parts of the Grand Canyon National Park to visit. There are endless hikes to do, and so many beautiful viewpoints and activities to add to your list of what to do at the South Rim Grand Canyon.

My top recommendation for things to do in South Rim Grand Canyon is to ride the shuttle bus to all of the viewpoints up and down the rim of the canyon and then plan on doing a short hike to experience the sheer scale of the canyon itself.

If you’re planning on visiting Utah and Arizona, be sure to check out the following National Parks. Bryce Canyon National Park was one of my favorites, Antelope Canyon nearby is well worth visiting, Arches NP is also a must-see, and you can also combine a trip to Arches and Canyonlands in one day, or spend longer in Canyonlands too.

Last Updated on August 1, 2023 by Hannah