The Grand Canyon is one of those natural wonders that everyone needs to see at least once in their lifetime.
Sure, you’ve seen thousands of pictures and videos throughout your life, but nothing can really prepare you for seeing it with your own two eyes.
It’s tough to put into words.
But if you only have one day to experience it, you might be wondering: What’s the best way to schedule my day so I can see all the best parts?
The Grand Canyon is obviously huge — it takes 4 hours to drive from the North Rim to the South Rim — so you will need to limit your itinerary to one rim, and I can confidently say that you should spend that one day at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.
This will give you the most iconic and fulfilling experience.
You’ll get to see the sunrise at Mather Point, hike some of the most iconic trails (South Kaibab or Bright Angel Trail), drive along Hermit Road, and end your day at Desert View Watchtower for sunset.
I’ll also include tips for shuttles, where to eat, and how to make the most of your time if you’re on a day trip from Phoenix, Sedona, or Flagstaff.
Here’s how to see the Grand Canyon South Rim in one day!
Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.
Which Rim Should I Visit?
It’s called the Grand Canyon for a reason. It stretches over 277 miles and is 18 miles wide. With that being said, it would be impossible to see and enjoy the entire park in just one day.
Choosing which rim of the Grand Canyon to visit depends on your preferences, interests, and the experience you’re seeking.
Grand Canyon South Rim: The most visited and iconic section of the Grand Canyon. This is where you’ll get a classic experience. It’s the most developed part of the Grand Canyon, by far, and offers the best views without requiring a long hike (if any hiking at all).
Grand Canyon North Rim: More secluded and serene with fewer visitors. It also features cooler temperatures and slightly less dramatic views than the South Rim.
Grand Canyon West Rim: Most people here are day tripping from Las Vegas. It’s less developed and managed by the Hualapai Tribe. The main attraction here is the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge extending over the canyon.
Grand Canyon East Rim: The least-visited part of the Grand Canyon, which is primarily accessed through the remote Desert View area on the South Rim.
Why I Prefer The South Rim
During my trip to Arizona, I visited the South Rim, and it was an easy decision.
I had already been staying here for a few days to visit the Wrigley Mansion and some of the city’s best museums.
Luckily, a trip from Phoenix is the best way to see the Grand Canyon in one day!
It’s the closest major city to the South Rim, where you’ll find Grand Canyon Village, the historic hub of the South Rim, offering accommodations, restaurants, and visitor centers. It’s open year-round and home to many quintessential Grand Canyon hikes and viewpoints.
The South Rim is the most visited and iconic section of the Grand Canyon. Here, you’ll find Grand Canyon Village, the historic hub of the South Rim, offering accommodations, restaurants, and visitor centers. It’s open year-round and home to many quintessential Grand Canyon hikes and viewpoints.
Ultimately, the best rim for you depends on your preferences, but if it’s your first visit, I highly recommend spending your one day in the Grand Canyon on the South Rim. This will provide you with the classic experience, enabling you to make the most of your limited time.
So, that’s where my Grand Canyon one-day itinerary takes place!
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How Do I Get to the South Rim?
The closest airport to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is Flagstaff, Arizona (97 miles). However, if you cannot find flights that work with your dates and budget, you could also check out flying into Phoenix (235 miles) or Las Vegas (285 miles).
I was already in Phoenix for the week, so I rented a car and drove to the South Rim!
I’m really glad I rented a car, as it gave me the freedom to explore the Grand Canyon at my own leisure.
But if driving is not your thing, you can also check out guided day trips from each of the cities mentioned above.
This tour is probably the day trip that I would choose.
I like it because the tour also makes a stop in Sedona, but several other options also make for a great day trip to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
- Antelope Canyon Day Trip From Phoenix
- Grand Canyon Tour From Flagstaff
- Grand Canyon with Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon Van Tour
If you’re flying into Las Vegas and can’t make it all the way to the South Rim, here are a couple of great day tours of the West Rim that might work for you.
- Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour & Hoover Dam Photo Stop (w/ Skywalk)
- Grand Canyon West Rim Aerial Helicopter Tour
How to Get Around During One Day in Grand Canyon National Park
After arriving at the park, you will find a free shuttle bus service inside the South Rim. The routes and times do vary depending on the season, so be sure to check out the schedule before visiting.
The entrance fee is $20 per person or $35 for a vehicle (+ all passengers).
This fee covers the shuttles within the park, so you do not have to worry about reserving additional tickets.
However, if you are visiting during peak season, be prepared for lines and crowds.
Unlike other national parks, the shuttle is not mandatory at the Grand Canyon South Rim, but I highly recommend taking the shuttle (even if you rent a car in Arizona), as parking can be challenging to find.
Map of This Grand Canyon Itinerary
Before we dive into the details, let’s take a quick look at an overview of the day on a map of Grand Canyon National Park.
The South Rim offers an abundance of trails, viewpoints, and attractions.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, there’s something for everyone.
One Day at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim (Full Itinerary)
Here’s how to spend a perfect day on the South Rim, including exactly what to see and when to go.
I’ve broken down this 1-day itinerary into three sections to help make planning effortless for you. I’ll also include some of the spots I missed the first time around and hope to see next time I’m in town.
Here’s my ideal Grand Canyon (South Rim) itinerary!
Morning: Sunrise at Mather Point & South Kaibab Trail
There’s no better way to begin your one day in the Grand Canyon than witnessing a breathtaking sunrise at Mather Point. Bring a thermos of hot coffee or tea, enjoy some snacks, and then find a cozy spot to witness nature’s masterpiece unfold before your eyes.
It’s seriously breathtaking.
Insider Tip: Mather Point tends to get crowded, so consider arriving at least 30 minutes before sunrise to secure the perfect viewing spot.
You must park at the Visitor Center and walk, as the Orange Route shuttle does not begin until 8am.
After enjoying the sunrise, head to the South Kaibab Trailhead.
From the visitor center, you can take the Orange Route shuttle bus to the beginning of the hike.
This moderately challenging trail offers stunning views and leads all the way to Phantom Ranch on the Colorado River, but you’ll arrive at the famous Ooh Aah Point after just 1.8 miles.
Just be prepared for a leg workout on the way up!
Afternoon: Hermit Road, Visitor’s Center, Trail of Time
If visiting during the warmer months (March-November), hop on the Red Route shuttle to ride along Hermit Road, a 7-mile scenic route that brings amazing views of the South Rim.
It’s the perfect way to give your legs a bit of a break after your morning hike.
This shuttle does not run from November to February, but you can still drive the Hermit Road in your private vehicle during the winter.
Then, make your way back to the visitors center to dive into the history of the Grand Canyon. I didn’t have enough time this visit, but I suggest taking the time out to watch the 34-minute video in the IMAX theater and grabbing lunch.
If you have more time before the sun sets, head back outside to explore the Trail of Time. You can reach the trailhead via a 30-minute walk from the Visitor Center.
This 2.8-mile paved trail helps visitors learn more about the magnitude of geologic time with the help of markers and exhibits.
Evening: Desert View Watchtower Sunset
As the day winds down, head to the Desert View Watchtower for a mesmerizing sunset. This historic structure provides a unique vantage point, allowing you to see the canyon bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.
There’s no shuttle to this spot, so you will have to drive your own car to the parking lot.
It’s the perfect place to close out your Grand Canyon day trip!
More Things to Do at the Grand Canyon
If you find yourself with more than one day on The Grand Canyon’s South Rim, here are some more amazing things to do!
- Explore the Grand Canyon Village
- Visit the Yavapai Geology Museum
- Take a helicopter tour
- Rent a bike
- Check out the other rims
- Visit Horseshoe Bend (technically outside the park)
When is the Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon South Rim?
The Grand Canyon is enchanting year-round, but Spring and Fall offer pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds. Aim for April to June or September to November for an ideal experience. This way, all the shuttles will be running, and you won’t have to worry about the ridiculous summer heat and crowds (most of the trails are completely shadeless).
Where to Stay Near the South Rim
There are various lodging options near the South Rim, ranging from historic lodges within the park to charming hotels in nearby towns, such as Tusayan. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. I use Booking.com to book my hotels.
Here are a few choices:
- Bright Angel Lodge – (1*) Hotel
- Yavapai Lodge – (2*) Hotel
- Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel – (3*) Hotel
- Squire Resort At The Grand Canyon, BW Signature Collection – (4*) Hotel
Tips for Visiting the Grand Canyon for a Day
- Dress in Layers: Temperatures can vary, so wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water. The desert air can be deceiving, so it’s easy to get dehydrated. If you want to be certain you’re never without clean drinking water, then get this convenient filtering water bottle before your trip! Always, always, always bring more water than you think you will need.
- Bring Sun Protection: Don’t forget to apply sunscreen, wear a hat, and use sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun’s rays. There’s almost no shade throughout the South Rim!
- Check Trail Conditions: Before going on a hike, be sure to check the national park’s website for current trail conditions and closures.
- Have a plan: As mentioned above, the Grand Canyon is HUGE. To make the most of your 1 day in the Grand Canyon, it’s essential to have an itinerary ready to go!
Is One Day in the Grand Canyon Worth It?
YES! Spending one day at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim is an unforgettable journey through natural wonders and breathtaking landscapes.
Just make sure to plan your trip intentionally.
Renting a car for the day is by far the best way to go!
But if you don’t feel comfortable driving, it’s worth it to book a curated day trip like this one, so that you know you’ll get to see all of the best things to do at the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.
And if you follow this Grand Canyon trip itinerary and add a personal touch, I guarantee that you’ll make memories that’ll last a lifetime!
Did you learn anything new? Have feedback? Referring back to this post after visiting the Grand Canyon? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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Photo Credit
Thank you to Tim Hart for the Pinterest photo on The Grand Canyon (I discovered his work on Unsplash.com). Make sure you check it out!
Disclosure
This blog post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on them and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. This commission comes at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.
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