Most National Park tour vacations visit the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. That’s because there is lot’s to see and do in this area, and frequent shuttles make it easy for travelers to get around.
Here are some of the most popular things to do when visiting the Grand Canyon South Rim.
The Grand Canyon Railway
Who wouldn’t love a train ride through one of the most extraordinary spots in the entire world? The Grand Canyon Railway takes travelers from Williams, Arizona to the South Rim. This two hour and 15 minute train ride first started in 1901. Travelers can look out of the train’s windows and see some of the unique sites of the Grand Canyon. The train ride departs Williams Depot at 9:30 a.m. each day and arrives in the South Rim at 11:45 a.m. It departs from the South Rim to go back to Williams at 3:30 p.m.
Mule Rides
Mule rides are one of the most popular things to do in the South Rim. An experienced ranger will guide participants and point out interesting things along the way. Mule rides generally last about 3 hours and reservations are needed because they do tend to fill up fast.
River Rafting
Calling all of you nature lovers out there! Imagine seeing all the incredible rock formations that make up the South Rim while gliding down a river in a raft. The waters are generally pretty calm and offer participants some amazing views. River rafting in the South Rim takes up most of the day so participants should plan accordingly.
On Your Own Explorations
For those that would rather explore the area on their own there’s plenty to do. Park guests can rent a bike at Bright Angel Bicycles which is located by the Visitor Center. View the sunrise or sunset while riding along the Greenway Trail or stroll the Rime Trail to enjoy the light changing on the canyon walls and in the sky.
For guests that want to be adventurous and do some hiking, there are hiking trails available that offer amazing views of the inner part of the canyon. Guests can hike day or night, but for those that want to hike during the nighttime hours and find a spot to campout, they will need a permit beforehand. South Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge is a nice short hike, where Bright Angle Trail is a full day hike.
Drive 25 miles along Desert View Drive. View the sunset or sunrise from Lipan Point on Desert View Drive.
Travel Tips: Use sunblock, stay hydrated, take your time, and rest in the shade to reduce the risk of sunburn, dehydration, nausea, shortness of breath, and exhaustion while visiting the South Rim at 7,000 feet (2,135 m). Free Grand Canyon spring water is available from bottle filling stations at major trailheads, visitor centers, grocery stores, and lodges. Bring your own or buy a reusable water bottle at Park Stores or gift shops. Stay hydrated and reduce your environmental footprint.
No matter where you go in the Grand Canyon you will see spectacular views. The South Rim is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day and always welcoming to visitors.
