Grand Canyon National Park - South Rim

Yes, it’s the grand-daddy of all canyon country National Parks and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The Grand Canyon is on a lot of people's "Bucket List" of things they just have to see before they die. And once you see it, you'll understand why.

Frankly, the park is so large and has so many things to see and do that it's hard to really cover it all. You can easily spend your entire family vacation here.

Although the Grand Canyon is spectacular from above and accessible here to all visitors, a true Grand Canyon experience can only be found by hiking off the ‘rim’. The park is a dream come true for hikers, and there are trails that will challenge even the fittest visitor. Hiking into the depths of the canyon is a popular choice and in our opinion it’s the only way to really appreciate the absolute vastness of it.  But be prepared - it will take all day to hike to the bottom and another day to hike back up.

There are several trails visitors can take for day hikes down the canyon walls, most of which are quite steep and offer no shade. The toughest trails are the Hermit Trail and the Grandview Trail, but don't be a show-off and attempt these trails unless you’re in great shape and have some experience hiking in desert heat.

The classic way to travel down to the bottom of the canyon is by mule, because you can let the mule do all the hard work! However, mule tours are so popular that they are usually booked up for many months in advance. If you want to give it a try, you'd better plan ahead… way ahead!

You could also head out through the park backcountry for some less-traveled hiking routes and overnight camping. You'll need permits to stay in any undeveloped camping areas, and the demand for permits can be pretty high. Again, make sure to plan your trip well in advance if you want to snag a permit. 

And you know what's at the bottom of the canyon, right? The raging Colorado River and countless spots for some white-water rafting. Take a quick afternoon trip, or raft on down the river for a multi-day camping excursion.

We want you to have the complete Grand Canyon experience, so let us know if you want to see it by helicopter, jeep or just have a guided tour arranged for you.

Quick Facts:

-- Though there is no doubt that the canyon is grand, the Grand Canyon actually sets no records for depth, length or width.

-- The park covers more than a million acres.