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Grand Canyon South Rim: A Timeless Wonder

Experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon from the South Rim: iconic views, historic sites, and unforgettable adventures await.

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The Grand Canyon's South Rim offers unparalleled views of this natural wonder, shaped over millennia by the Colorado River. Open year-round, it provides access to stunning vistas, hiking trails, historical sites, and diverse activities, making it the most accessible and visited part of the Grand Canyon National Park.

A brief summary to Grand Canyon South Rim

  • Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, US

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid crowds and secure parking.
  • Take advantage of the free shuttle system to navigate the South Rim and access popular viewpoints.
  • Bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear if you plan to hike, even on short trails.
  • Check the weather forecast and be prepared for varying conditions, including intense sun, heat, and sudden storms.
  • Stay for sunset or stargazing to experience the canyon in a different light.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Flagstaff, take Highway 180 north for approximately 80 miles to the South Entrance of Grand Canyon National Park. From Williams, travel north on Highway 64 for 60 miles. Upon entering the park, a vehicle pass costs $35, valid for seven days and includes access to both the South and North Rims. Parking is available in several lots near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and Grand Canyon Village; however, during peak season, these lots fill quickly. Consider parking in Tusayan and utilizing the free Tusayan Route shuttle bus to avoid traffic and parking congestion.

  • Public Transport

    Several shuttle services operate from Flagstaff and Phoenix to the South Rim. Nava-Hopi Tours and Arizona Shuttle offer bus services from Flagstaff. From the Grand Canyon Airport in Tusayan, taxis are available to the South Rim. Once inside the park, a free shuttle bus system provides access to various viewpoints, trailheads, and facilities. The park's free shuttle buses operate on several routes, including the Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route, Village (Blue) Route, and Hermit Road (Red) Route. No tickets are required for the free shuttle buses.

  • Walking

    From the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Mather Point is a short, paved walk offering stunning views. The Rim Trail, a mostly flat, paved path, stretches for 13 miles along the canyon's edge, providing access to numerous viewpoints. Free shuttle buses stop frequently along the Rim Trail, allowing for easy access and varied walking distances. Kolb Studio is located on the western end of Village Loop Road, near the Bright Angel Trailhead, accessible via the Rim Trail.

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Discover more about Grand Canyon South Rim

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon, located within Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, is the most accessible and frequently visited area of this immense natural wonder. Carved over millions of years by the relentless force of the Colorado River, the canyon stretches for 277 miles (446 km), is up to 18 miles (29 km) wide, and reaches depths of over a mile (1.6 km). The South Rim provides iconic panoramic views that draw millions of visitors annually. The South Rim's history is rich and varied. Native Americans have inhabited the area for thousands of years, with the Havasupai people claiming the South Rim as their ancestral home for the past 800 years. Spanish explorers first encountered the canyon in 1540, but it wasn't until the late 19th century that European-American settlers began to develop the area for tourism. The arrival of the Grand Canyon Railway in 1901 significantly boosted visitor numbers, leading to the construction of hotels like the El Tovar and studios like the Kolb Studio. In 1919, the Grand Canyon was officially designated a National Park, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Today, the South Rim offers a wide array of activities and attractions. Visitors can explore Grand Canyon Village, a historic district with shops, restaurants, and museums. Mather Point and Yavapai Point provide easily accessible and breathtaking viewpoints. Hiking trails like Bright Angel and South Kaibab offer more immersive experiences, while free shuttle buses provide convenient access to various points of interest along the rim. The South Rim is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, making it possible to experience the canyon at sunrise, sunset, and even under the stars.

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