Travel Plan
South Rim

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · GRAND CANYON

South Rim

The most visited side of the Grand Canyon, with paved rim trails, shuttle buses and famous viewpoints over a canyon 1.8 km deep and up to 29 km wide.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
Full day
Entry
Paid (park entry per vehicle)
Best time
Sunrise and sunset
Area
Grand Canyon NP

Classic viewpoints along the canyon edge.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

  • Car: About 4h30 from Las Vegas or 3h30 from Phoenix.
  • Train: Grand Canyon Railway from Williams.
  • Shuttle: Free park shuttles along the rim.

The story of Grand Canyon South Rim

The Colorado River carved the canyon over about 5–6 million years, exposing rocks almost 2 billion years old.

Mather Point, Yavapai Point and Hopi Point are favourite viewpoints, and the Rim Trail links many of them.

Best time to visit

Best season

March to May and September to November.

Best time of day

Sunrise and sunset.

Summer

Hot below the rim; start hikes early.

Tips before you go

  • Watch sunrise at Mather Point.
  • Do not try to hike to the river and back in one day.
  • Stay overnight to see both sunset and sunrise.

Best hotels near Grand Canyon South Rim

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Hotels in Grand Canyon Village

On the rim.

See prices

Hotels in Tusayan

Just outside the park.

See prices

Hotels in Page Arizona

Near Antelope Canyon.

See prices
All hotels near Grand Canyon South Rim

What's around Grand Canyon South Rim

  • Grand Canyon VillageOn the rim.
  • Desert View Watchtower40 minutes east.
  • Horseshoe Bend2h30 by car.

Questions travellers ask

Which rim is best?

The South Rim is open all year and easiest to visit.

How long do I need?

1–2 days.

Can I hike in?

Yes, but plan carefully and carry water.

More in Grand Canyon

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend

Read the guide
Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon

Read the guide
Back to the Grand Canyon guide
Travel Plan · South Rim Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us