Ultimate Guide to Grand Canyon's South Rim

The Grand Canyon National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors each year with its stunning vistas and diverse recreational opportunities. Whether you’re here for a day of exploration or planning an extended stay, there’s something for everyone, from hiking the rugged trails to marveling at panoramic views. The South Rim, known for its accessibility and amenities, offers various lodging options, dining experiences, and essential visitor services. This guide will walk you through the entrance fees, accommodations, dining choices, and essential tips to enhance your visit to this majestic landscape. Prepare to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the world’s most iconic national parks!

Entrance Fee:

$35 for a 7-day vehicle pass

*This park does not accept cash.

Another option, especially if you plan on visiting Arizona’s other national parks, is an America the Beautiful Pass. It covers the entrance fees for over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including all national parks and monuments.

If you have a 4^th grader in your crew, check out Every Kid Outdoors for a free National Park Pass instead!

Lodging (for the SOUTH RIM only):

The South Rim has six lodges and one RV park. Two outside companies run them. Xanterra Parks and Resorts include Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Kachina Lodge, Thunderbird Lodge, and Maswik Lodge. Reservations for all Xanterra properties can be made here- Xanterra Reservations. Delaware North includes the Yavapai Lodge and Trailer Village RV Park. Reservations for Delaware North properties can be made here- Delaware North Reservations.

Besides the Trailer Village RV Park, there are two other developed campgrounds on the south rim- Mather Campground and Desert View Campground. Mather is open year-round and does not require reservations, although it is recommended. Desert View, on the other hand, is open seasonally, and reservations are required. Reservations for both can be made at Recreation.gov.

The park does have backcountry camping. A permit is required and must be obtained in person at the Backcountry Information Center. For more information on backcountry camping, click here: Backcountry Camping.

For accommodations outside the park, check out the cities of Tusayan (7 mi.), Valle (30 mi.), Red Lake (40 mi.), Williams (60 mi.), and Flagstaff (80 mi.).

Dining (for SOUTH RIM only):

Numerous dining options are available along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Below is a list of food options tailored to your location. All dining options are accessible year-round, unless otherwise stated.

Visitor Center

Canyon Adventures Bike Tours and Café– a coffee shop with grab-and-go breakfast and lunch options.

Market Plaza

Canyon Village Market General Store- groceries, as well as breakfast and lunch
Yavapai Lodge Restaurant– breakfast and dinner
Yavapai Lodge Coffee Shop- coffee and snacks
Yavapai Lodge Tavern– lunch and dinner

Grand Canyon Village

El Tovar Dining Room– breakfast, lunch, and dinner
El Tovar Lounge- small meals and drinks
Arizona Steakhouse– lunch and dinner (reservations recommended)
Fred Harvey Burger– breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Bright Angel Fountain– coffee, tea, ice cream, to-go breakfast, and lunch
Bright Angel Tavern- dinner and drinks
Maswik Food Court & Pizza Pub– breakfast, lunch, dinner

Hermit’s Rest

Hermit’s Rest Snack Bar– snacks and drinks

Desert View

Trading Post- coffee and ice cream
Desert View Market and Deli– groceries, to-go breakfast, and lunch
Desert View Gas Station- groceries (SUMMER ONLY)

Shuttle Service:

If you are visiting the Grand Canyon’s South Rim between March and November, parking is limited, and you will need to utilize the park’s free shuttle system to see everything on this itinerary
For this itinerary, plan to use the RED shuttle and possibly the BLUE and ORANGE shuttles for Day 1 and only the orange shuttle for Day 2.
Click on this shuttle map and print before your arrival for a much smoother visit.
Shuttles are free, and no ticket is needed.
Expect long lines in the summer months.
Buses stop at each stop every 15 to 30 minutes.
There is no eating or drinking on the bus.
Strollers must collapse.
Every bus is wheelchair accessible.

Know Before You Go:

Prepare for coat, hat, and gloves weather during the winter, spring, and fall. We visited in March and April this year, and we experienced snow!
Elevations at the South Rim exceed 7,000 ft. Stay hydrated, rest frequently, and use sun protection.
Most overlooks and many paths near the edge of a cliff. Please use caution and keep a close watch on young children.
Never throw anything over the rim. Hikers and wildlife are below.
Please keep a safe distance from wildlife- elk/mountain lions/condors/deer/sheep all need at least 100 ft. Do not feed any wildlife. This rule is one that many people struggle to follow. And yes, that even includes the cute little squirrels.

2-Day Itinerary

If you plan to visit during the off-season, you can complete this itinerary in one day, which is what we did this past March. However, during the summer, long shuttle lines and limited parking near the red shuttle can make this option very difficult.

Day 1

To begin your day, you have two options. You can find street parking near the RED Shuttle Transfer Station, located close to the Bright Angel Lodge. OR, you can park in one of the Visitor Center lots and take the BLUE Shuttle to the RED Shuttle Transfer Station. The RED Shuttle operates from 8 AM until one hour after sunset. Please note that outbound buses stop at all nine overlooks, while return buses stop at only four. If you plan to visit all nine overlooks and use the shuttle bus for each one, you must make all your stops on the way to Hermit’s Rest.

Hermit Road (RED Shuttle)– 7 miles one-way

Trailview Overlook-

The Trailview Overlook is situated 0.7 miles from the transfer station and serves as your first stop along Hermit Road. This location features two overlooks that offer stunning views of the canyon and the numerous switchbacks of the Bright Angel Trail below. From here, you can either walk 0.7 miles along the rim to reach Maricopa Point or wait for the next shuttle.

Maricopa Point-

At this stop, you’ll find a short, paved path. It leads to stunning views of the canyon and your first glimpse of the Colorado River. You can even see remnants of the Orphan Lode Mine. Please note that the path does not have railings, so exercise caution, especially with young children who may run ahead. From this point, you can either walk the 0.5 miles to Powell Point or wait for the next shuttle. The walk is relatively easy, so if you’re able, I recommend taking that route.

Powell Point-

Powell Point has more stunning vistas as well as the Powell Memorial that commemorates several exploratory trips down the Colorado River. Again, the short, paved path out to the overlook does not have any railings, so please use caution near the ledge. The next overlook is just 0.3 miles away, so I recommend walking to your next stop.

Hopi Point-

This lovely overlook is just steps from the shuttle stop. This stop also has restrooms available. After taking in the views, either walk 0.8 miles to the next overlook or wait for the next shuttle.

Mohave Point-

This stop has a paved path leading to several different excellent viewpoints of the surrounding landscape. From here, I recommend taking the shuttle for 1.1 miles to the next stop.

The Abyss-

This stop is my personal favorite, but it may not be the best choice for those who are afraid of heights! Right next to the shuttle stop is the longest vertical drop along the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, and looking over this ledge is sure to get your heart racing. And although some railings are in place, they don’t cover the entire area so please use caution. From this point, you can either walk 0.9 miles along the dirt path or wait for the shuttle to Monument Creek Vista.

Monument Creek Vista-

This overlook has more incredible views of the canyon as well as great views of the Granite Rapids along the river below. This stop also marks the beginning of the Greenway Trail, a former carriage road that now features six overlooks, multiple resting points, and is accessible to hikers, bikers, and visitors using wheelchairs. From here, either walk the 1.7 miles on the paved path to Pima Point or wait for the next shuttle.

Pima Point-

This overlook is popular for a reason- the views are just spectacular, with views of both the canyon and the rushing river far below. From here, you can either walk the 1.1 miles on the paved path to Hermit’s Rest or wait for the next shuttle.

Hermit’s Rest-

After enjoying the breathtaking views, use the restroom and grab a snack from the snack bar. When we visited at the end of March, it was snowing, making it a perfect spot to warm up by the fire while sipping on a delicious hot chocolate.

From Hermit’s Rest, jump on a return trip bus and take it back to the transfer station. Then either drive or take the BLUE shuttle over to the Visitor Center.

Visitor Center to Mather Point and Yavapai Point via the Rim Trail

Distance: 1.8 miles round-trip

Trail Route: Out-and-back

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: <100 ft

If you do not want to walk this route, the ORANGE shuttle, which can be picked up from the Visitor Center, makes stops at both Mather Point and Yavapai Point. You will need to take the ORANGE shuttle WESTBOUND.

If you plan to walk from the Visitor Center, follow the signs for Mather Point. The path is flat and paved, leading to one of the most popular spots in the park, just 0.2 miles from the Visitor Center. Mather Point features a large viewing platform, but is still often overcrowded. Despite the crowds, it’s worth a quick stop for incredible views on your way to Yavapai Point.

From Mather Point to Yavapai Point is another 0.7 miles along the Rim Trail. Once you arrive at Yavapai Point, you can enjoy breathtaking views and visit the Yavapai Museum of Geology, which is located right at the cliff’s edge. Our crew loves 3D maps, and the museum has a fascinating one to explore, along with many other informative exhibits. The museum is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.

After exploring the museum, you can either take the ORANGE shuttle back to the Visitor Center or walk the 0.9 miles back via the Rim Trail.

Day 2

For Day 2, park in any of the Visitor Center lots and hop on the ORANGE shuttle going EASTBOUND. Get off at the stop for the South Kaibab Trail for your first stop of the day.

Ooh Aah Point via South Kaibab Trail (ORANGE Shuttle)

Distance: 1.8 miles round-trip

Trail Route: Out-and-back

Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 600+ ft

I recommend starting your day on this trail- when your energy is high and the trail is partially shaded. You will navigate several steep switchbacks as you descend into the canyon towards the incredible views at Ooh Aah Point. The journey there is entirely downhill, which means the return trip will be an uphill climb. Make sure to take plenty of breaks and bring ample water. The trail is primarily composed of loose sand and gravel, so it’s essential to wear shoes with good traction to prevent slipping. In terms of safety- this trail is a great option for kids to explore the canyon. Although it is close to the ledge, the drops are not nearly as steep as in other parts of the park.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, continue from Ooh Aah Point to Cedar Ridge. It will add another 1.2 miles onto your hike and an additional 500 feet of elevation gain.

Once you are back at the shuttle stop, take the ORANGE shuttle, EASTBOUND to Yaki Point.

Yaki Point

This breathtaking viewpoint is one of my absolute favorites. From here, you can take in the panoramic scenery that stretches for miles, with vibrant colors and natural beauty all around. One of the highlights of this overlook is the clear view of the iconic Watchtower in the distance- which will be your very last stop of the day.

From here, jump on an EASTBOUND shuttle. The shuttle will make a brief stop at Pipe Creek Vista before returning to the Visitor Center.

Once you return to the Visitor Center, head to your vehicle to begin the Desert View Drive. If you park in lots 1 through 4, take a left out of the lot for Desert View Drive.

Desert View Drive (private vehicle)- 23 miles, one-way

Along this stretch of road, you’ll find six developed overlooks, five unmarked pull-offs, four picnic areas, and the Tusayan Pueblo Site. Below are the stops you shouldn’t miss.

Duck on a Rock (mile marker 246)-

This is a quick stop at a rock formation that supposedly looks like a duck sitting on a rock- you REALLY have to use your imagination on this one. But, either way, the views are lovely and still worth taking a few minutes to stop.

Grandview Point (mile marker 251)-

I think every park has an overlook called “Grandview.” I’m not sure any of them are quite as spectacular as this one. The panoramic views are stunning, making this overlook popular for a reason. This stop also has restrooms available.

Moran Point (mile marker 258)-

There are many paths in this area that you can explore to enjoy the stunning views. Be aware that the cliff ledge can come up on you unexpectedly, and most paths are covered in loose gravel. Please exercise caution and wear appropriate footwear.

Tusayan Pueblo Site (mile marker 262)-

Take the short self-guiding trail through the small Ancestral Pueblo village. The site is open Thursday through Monday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Lipan Point (mile marker 263)-

I believe this is one of the best views along the entire South Rim. While you’re here, be sure to spot the Hance Rapids, Unkar Delta, and the Grand Canyon Supergroup.

Navajo Point (mile marker 264)-

Navajo Point is a quick stop that offers the highest vantage point on the South Rim. The overlook is just a short walk from the main parking area. From here, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, as well as a great view of the Watchtower to the west.

Desert View Watchtower (mile marker 264)-

This location features the largest parking area, but it is likely to be the most crowded stop of the day. From the parking lot, it is about 0.25 miles on a paved path to the canyon rim. Once there, you can explore various paths around the Watchtower that lead to different overlooks.

You can also visit the Watchtower View Room, which is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The View Room hosts cultural demonstrations by indigenous artists, and a schedule of these demonstrations can be found here.

Access to the upper floors of the Watchtower is also available, depending on staffing, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please note that a ticket is required to access the upper floors, and tickets are available in person at the Watchtower on a first-come, first-served basis.

Restrooms, food, and gas(seasonally) are available at this stop.