The massive canyon encompasses several distinct areas, most famous of which is Grand Canyon National Park (map). The Grand Canyon is 277 miles (446 km) long, up to 18 miles (29 km) wide and attains a depth of over a mile (6,093 feet or 1,857 meters).
The canyon and adjacent rim are contained within Grand Canyon National Park, the Kaibab National Forest, Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument (map), the Hualapai Indian Reservation, the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Lastly, part of the southeastern end of the canyon is within the borders of the Navajo Nation (wiki).
90% of Travelers Visit Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim (map).
+ More info > Wikipedia • Wikivoyage • UNESCO
The Grand Canyon fills me with awe. It is beyond comparison—beyond description; absolutely unparalleled throughout the wide world. — Theodore Roosevelt
In spots the rock layers exposed in the canyon display over two billion years of geologic history. The canyon is an overwhelming experience, and nothing can prepare a visitor for the sight.
Even though it is not the deepest canyon in the world (see *Kali Gandaki Gorge in Nepal), the Grand Canyon is known for its visually overwhelming size and its intricate and colorful landscape. Grand Canyon National Park is one of the world’s premier natural attractions, attracting about five million visitors per year. Overall, 83% were from the United States.
The Grand Canyon is part of the The Grand Circle Road Trip, which includes the Monument Valley, Mesa Verde National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Natural Bridges National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, Arches National Park and many other attractions.
There is no easy connection between the North and South rims. By car, the shortest route is a five-hour drive crossing the river by a bridge near Lee’s Ferry; by foot, it is a two-day hike across the canyon.
Camping on the North and South rims is generally restricted to established campgrounds and reservations are highly recommended, especially at the busier South Rim. North Rim campsites are only open seasonally due to road closures from weather and winter snowpack. All overnight camping below the rim requires a backcountry permit from the Backcountry Office (BCO).
Weather conditions can greatly affect hiking and canyon exploration, and visitors should obtain accurate forecasts because of hazards posed by exposure to extreme temperatures. For accurate weather in the canyon, hikers should consult the National Weather Service’s NOAA weather radio or the official National Weather Service website.
The National Park Service runs an extensive shuttle service on the South Rim with three interlocking routes. The service is free, and generally runs from before sunrise until after sunset, depending on the route. During the summer the park service operates a shuttle from Tusayan into the park.
The South Rim has an airport and rail service and is a 60 minute drive from Interstate 40 and the town of Williams (map) – and 90 minutes from Flagstaff (map), also on Interstate 40.
BY CAR > The majority of visitors to the South Rim of the park arrive from the south on Arizona Route 64 (AZ 64) (conjoined with US highway 180). Or, you can enter the South Rim from the east on AZ64.
ROADTRIPPERS | #1 road trip planning platform.
BUS > There are no commercial bus lines offering transportation to either rim, but several tour companies offer guided tours originating in Flagstaff, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and other locations. There is a small shuttle service, Arizona Shuttle Service, which does carry passengers and luggage from the Flagstaff Amtrak station (map). GoToBus.com is the leading go-to website for booking inter-city bus ticket online. Intercity bus travel is widespread, but not available everywhere. (*Long-distance bus travel in the United States)
RAIL > AMTRAK | eTicketing | Interactive Map. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief, with trains operating daily between Chicago and Los Angeles, stops at Williams Junction 3 mi (4.8 km) east of Williams town, with connections to the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams. The Grand Canyon Railway operates a train ride from the town of Williams to the Grand Canyon Village (travel time is 2½ hours in each direction). (*Rail travel in the United States)
AIRPORTS > Grand Canyon National Park Airport – The airport is primarily used for scenic tours and charter flights, but there is scheduled commercial service. Las Vegas / McCarran International Airport, which is 275 mi (443 km) from the South Rim. Phoenix / Sky Harbor Airport, 230 mi (370 km) from the South Rim. Flagstaff’s / Pulliam Airport is the nearest commercial airport to the canyon. Flight Delay Information — Air Traffic Control System Command Center.
WATERWAYS > Washington State Ferries | Route Maps: Where we sail (PDF). Bluewater Ferry Inc. (USA – Canada). America has the largest system of inland waterways of any country in the world. It is entirely possible to navigate around within the United States by boat. The New York State Canal System • The St. Lawrence Seaway • *The Mississippi River.