One Perfect Day in The Grand Canyon (South Rim Itinerary)

The Grand Canyon is one of those natural wonders that everyone needs to see at least once in their lifetime. Sure, you can check out pictures and videos on Facebook, but nothing beats seeing the sights with your own two eyes. It’s truly hard to put into words. So whether you are on an Arizona road trip, or making the trek solely to the canyon, here is how to spend one day in the Grand Canyon. In my (not at all biased) opinion, this itinerary is the best way to see the Grand Canyon 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.

I Only Have One Day at the Grand Canyon…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. Each rim—South, North, West, and East—offers unique characteristics and perspectives of the canyon. During my Arizona trip, I visited the South Rim. It was amazing and where I would recommend you spend your one day in the Grand Canyon. 

However, I want to make sure you have a full understanding of each rim before we dive into The Grand Canyon 1-day itinerary. Here’s a quick intro of each rim. 

1. South Rim: The Classic Grand Canyon Experience

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. 

The following one-day Grand Canyon itinerary will take place in the South Rim as it’s the best for families and first-time visitors! 

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2. North Rim: Tranquil Beauty and Cooler Temperatures

The North Rim offers a more secluded and serene experience, attracting fewer visitors than the South Rim. Due to its higher elevation, the North Rim enjoys cooler temperatures and a different ecosystem.

3. West Rim: Adventure and Skywalk

The West Rim is managed by the Hualapai Tribe and offers a mix of natural beauty and adventurous activities. The Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass-bottomed bridge extending over the canyon, is a notable attraction. The West Rim is a great place to visit if you are road tripping from Las Vegas. 

4. East Rim: Less Explored Wilderness

The East Rim is the least visited part of the Grand Canyon and is primarily accessed through the remote Desert View area on the South Rim. It offers a more rugged and less developed experience. This is where you will find the famous Horseshoe Bend overlook. 

Ultimately, the best rim for you depends on your preferences. If it’s your first visit and you want the classic Grand Canyon experience, the South Rim is a solid choice (which is where the following itinerary takes place). If you prefer a quieter and cooler atmosphere, the North Rim might be more suitable. For adventure and unique activities, explore the West Rim, and for a more secluded wilderness experience, consider the less-explored East Rim. Whatever your choice, the Grand Canyon will undoubtedly leave you in awe with its awe-inspiring beauty.

How Do I Get to the South Rim?

If flying, it will be best to fly to Flagstaff, Arizona which is just 97 miles from the South Rim entry. 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 located in Phoenix already, so I was able to access the South Rim from there.

No matter which airport you choose, it will be best to rent a car to have full freedom to explore the Grand Canyon at your leisure. If driving is not your thing, you can also check out guided day trips from each of the cities mentioned above. Here’s a day trip option that I highly recommend as you’ll also get to see Sedona. I’ll also leave more options below.

1. Antelope Canyon Day Trip From Phoenix
2. Grand Canyon Sunset Tour From Flagstaff
3. Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour & Hoover Dam Photo Stop with Optional Skywalk
4. Grand Canyon West Rim Aerial Helicopter Tour
5. Grand Canyon with Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon Van 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 of the South Rim. The routes and times do vary depending on the season so be sure to check out the schedule before visiting. 

Your entry fee ($35) covers the shuttles so you do not have to worry about reserving tickets or time slots. However, if you are visiting during peak season be prepared for lines and crowds. 

Unlike other national parks, the shuttle is not mandatory in the Grand Canyon South Rim. To make your experience seamless I would highly recommend taking it as parking can be hard to find. Taking the shuttle also depends on whether you’re taking a day trip or going separately. It’s not necessary if you’re taking a day trip as you’ll have a driver.

One Day at the Grand Canyon Map

Before we dive into the details, let’s take a quick look at our map for the day. 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.

1 Day in the Grand Canyon Itinerary (South Rim)

Here’s how to spend one perfect day at the Grand Canyon. I’ve broken up this one day itinerary into three sections to help make your planning easy! I also plan on revisiting to catch the things I missed the first time around and strive to do the next time I’m in town. I’ll include all ideas below on how to spend your time there.

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, eat some snacks, then find a cozy spot and 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 will have to park at the Visitor Center and walk as the Orange Route shuttle does not begin until 8am. 

After enjoying the morning sunrise, head to the South Kaibab Trailhead. This moderately challenging trail offers stunning views and leads you to the famous Ooh Aah Point! It’s just 1.8 miles, but be prepared for a leg workout on the way up! From the visitor center, you can take the Orange Route shuttle bus to the beginning of the hike. 

Afternoon: Hermit Road, Visitor’s Center, Trail of Time

If visiting during the warmer months (March-November) hop on the Red Route shuttle to explore the Hermit Road. It’s 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 during the months of November, December, January and February, instead you are able to drive the Hermit road in your private vehicle. 

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 a quick grab-and-go 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 not a 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! This is definitely on my list the next time I go.

More Things to Do at the Grand Canyon

If you find yourself with more than one day at The Grand Canyon, 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

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 hot summer heat (most of the trails are completely shade-less).

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 like Tusayan. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Here’s a few choices:

1. Bright Angel Lodge – (1*) Hotel
2. Yavapai Lodge – (2*) Hotel
3. Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel – (3*) Hotel
4. 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: The dry desert air can be deceiving, so drink plenty of water, especially if you’re hiking. Always always always bring more water than you think you will need. 
• Sun Protection: Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and 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, make sure to check the national park’s website for trail conditions and closures! 
• Have a plan: As mentioned above, The Grand Canyon is HUGE. In order to make the most of your 1 day in the Grand Canyon, it’s important to have a 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. Follow this Grand Canyon trip itinerary, add your personal touch, and make memories that will last a lifetime! 

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Final Thoughts

The Grand Canyon is truly a wonder. I highly recommend seeing it in person for yourself. If you plan on visiting or if you’ve went already, please let me know! As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Would you visit The Grand Canyon? Feel free to share your thoughts. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here. 

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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 has affiliate links which means if you click 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.

Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling. 

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