Memorable Ways to Visit the Grand Canyon

Over the next few months, I hope that my posts here on the blog will provide you with valuable blog travelling information and inspiration so that when the time comes to travel again, you’ll be all set to go.

But for the foreseeable future, travel will look a lot different for all of us. For me, it means sticking to destinations closer to home and spending a lot of time reveling in and exploring the outdoors. Today’s post is going to focus on a destination right at the top of the great outdoors bucket list, the Grand Canyon.

When Hotels.com reached out to me and asked if I’d like to share my thoughts on visiting the Grand Canyon, I was eager to write about this absolutely gorgeous natural wonder, where you can enjoy spectacular views, challenge yourself on hiking trails, cycle along the rim, and learn about the history of the area, all while physical distancing.

I’ve visited the Grand Canyon a couple of times and it always manages to impress with its steep canyon walls and vivid layers of reddish, sepia, and even purple-hued rock. Stretching 277 miles (446 km) long and up to 18 miles (29 km) wide, there is plenty of room to explore this vast and beautiful place, and there are quite a lot of things to see and do.

Before I get into the many memorable ways that you can visit the Grand Canyon, I wanted to touch on some important information such as where to stay, what time of year you should plan your visit and a note on visiting during the COVID-19 pandemic.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR THE GRAND CANYON

The Grand Canyon can be divided into three main visitor areas: the South Rim, the North Rim, and the West Rim (although the West Rim is not technically part of Grand Canyon National Park and is instead owned and operated by the Hualapai Tribe).

Most visitors usually spend most of their time along the South Rim as that’s where you’ll find most amenities, dining options, attractions, and accommodations. It’s also open to visitors year-round so you can go during any season.

For accommodations near the South Rim, you can book one of the historic lodges within the national park itself (but be sure to inquire many months in advance as they book up really fast) or you can choose from one of several hotels, motels, and B&Bs located in the nearby town of Tusayan, Arizona. It’s the perfect location to base yourself for exploring the Grand Canyon as you’ll only be a few miles away from the park entrance.

Alternatively, the town of Williams, Arizona is also a good accommodation choice, located about an hour’s drive away from the park entrance.

WHAT TIME OF YEAR SHOULD I VISIT THE GRAND CANYON?

While this year might be an exception, typically the busiest months at the Grand Canyon occur in the summertime from June to the end of August. During this time period, popular lookouts, scenic drives, and points of interest can be pretty crowded. If you’d prefer to avoid the crowds in the summer, head to the North Rim for a more secluded experience.

An important thing to note about visiting during the summer is that it often gets extremely hot, with temperatures often soaring over 100 ºF (38 ºC)!

If you decide to visit during the summer, you can prepare for the heat by packing light clothing, sun protection (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc), and by ensuring you get enough water and nutrition throughout the day.

After the summer is over, the crowds thin out, and cooler weather arrives. Visiting during the fall (September to November) and during the spring (March to May) is a beautiful and quieter time to go, but it can also sometimes be cool and rainy so be sure to pack lots of layers.

The winter months are cold and can even be snowy, and most tourists have long since departed, but that doesn’t mean this season isn’t without its charm. There is a solitude within the park that you probably won’t find during the rest of the year.

Keep in mind that the North Rim is closed to vehicle traffic throughout the winter, but the South Rim is open to visitors year-round.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK ENTRANCE PASSES & FEES

• Private Vehicle – $35 USD valid for 7 days
• Motorcycle – $30 USD valid for 7 days
• Individual (bicyclist, hiker, pedestrian) – $20 USD valid for 7 days
• Grand Canyon National Park Annual Pass – $70 USD

VISITING THE GRAND CANYON DURING COVID-19

If you plan on visiting Grand Canyon National Park during the pandemic, please base your current or future travel plans on information and advice given by respected authorities and organizations, such as the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

You can also follow up on the latest travel info and news on the National Park Service Grand Canyon website for specific advisories or closures to the national park.

As travel today remains uncertain, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind at all times. If you are comfortable with traveling, please travel responsibly by following regulations. Keep in mind that any travel is at your own risk.

If you do decide to travel at this time, here are few simple ways to protect yourself and other travelers:

Wear a face mask.

Bring hand sanitizer and wash your hands on a regular basis.

Book a hotel with free cancellation in case you need to change your plans at the last minute.