grand canyon trip for seniors

Grand Canyon Tours for Seniors

Inducted as a National Park in 1919, the Grand Canyon has welcomed almost 5 million visitors each year in the past decade.

Both the young and young-at-heart delight in the amazing grandeur of this national park, and the Grand Canyon offers plenty to do, regardless of age or activity level. If you’re planning a Grand Canyon tour for seniors, make sure you check out these activities and sights during your upcoming excursion.

Take a Shuttle Tour

When planning Grand Canyon trips for seniors, accessibility is a priority. Luckily, you don’t have to hike to see the canyon, as there are a variety of guided shuttle and bus tours that can set you up for a successful sightseeing trip. Many of these tours offer complimentary pickup and drop-off at lodging found within the park, making this a convenient way to get around and see all the Grand Canyon has to offer.

Board a comfy bus and take an interpretive tour throughout the park. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the inspiring views out your window. Many of the in-park tours feature a trained driver-naturalist, who will enrich your experience with informative and entertaining narratives. Whether you’re hoping to take in the views from the remote East Rim or want to watch the sun rise over the canyon, you’ll find a great, senior citizen-friendly touring option.

An IMAX Experience

The best Grand Canyon tours for seniors incorporate strategic rest stops, so be sure to check in at the Visitor Center and experience the park in all of its glory—in just 34 minutes’ time. Take in a viewing of “Grand Canyon: Rivers of Time” and bask in an air-conditioned IMAX® Theater that boasts a six-story movie screen.

This breathtaking film will have you traveling throughout the park, encountering amazing sights and sounds. Learn about ancient residents of the Grand Canyon, soar above the rim, and glide across the rapid waters of the Colorado River—all from the comfort of a plush chair.

If you add this activity to your upcoming Grand Canyon trip for seniors, save 20 percent by purchasing your tickets online .

Take a Pink Jeep Tour

If you’re traveling with an elderly loved one but still want an exhilarating way to see the most majestic sights of the Grand Canyon, consider a Pink Jeep Tour . These tours are a great addition to a Grand Canyon trip for seniors, as they offer adventure and comfort in one package.

Choose from four different touring options: The Grand Entrance, The Grand Hike, The Grand Deluxe, and The Grand Finale—each offers something special for every member of the family. Your trained tour guide will take you around the most dramatic viewpoints of the park, regaling you with amazing facts and narratives about the history, geology, flora, and fauna of the Grand Canyon.

To sweeten an already fantastic deal, every Pink Jeep Tour comes with a ticket to see “Grand Canyon: Rivers of Time” at the Visitor Center, meaning you can explore the park in person and discover new sights through film.

Experience the Inner Canyon in Your Own Car

While shuttles are a fantastic and convenient way to explore the Grand Canyon’s breathtaking views, they unfortunately can’t make the journey down into the canyon.

Hiking and mule rides might not be an option if you’re planning a Grand Canyon tour for seniors, but that doesn’t mean you can’t experience the majesty of the inner rim. Head down Diamond Creek Road—the only route that provides automobile access into the park.

This hidden gravel road traverses the Hualapai Reservation, and with a permit, you can take your personal vehicle down into the depths of the canyon.

It should take you approximately an hour to traverse Diamond Creek road, and there are plenty of beautiful sights to take in on the way—just be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride, as this primitive road can run within the streambed of Diamond Creek. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the picnic area on your route and soak in the beauty of this one-of-a-kind Grand Canyon experience.

Pro tip: Your car must have four-wheel drive to handle the stretch from Peach Springs Canyon to the Colorado River, and keep in mind that there are no facilities on this path in the canyon.

Grand Canyon tours for seniors are anything but boring. Enjoy amazing cinematography of one of the United States’ most beautiful destinations, take in the sights on a guided Pink Jeep Tour, or drive your own car deep into the Canyon to learn more about this geological wonder first-hand. Learn more about our tips for making the most of your trip here , and turn your upcoming vacation into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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Fabulous! I just returned from Bindlestiff's Grand Canyon & more 3 day tour. It was Fabulous! It provided a well-planned itinerary of fascinating places (Zion National Park, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon (optional & a must!), Monument Valley & the Grand Canyon. We were a perfect size group of twelve international travelers in a comfy van plus our delightful Tour Guide, Jade. We had enough time to immerse ourselves in each location and enjoy each experience. When on the road, Jade played upbeat themed music, weaved interested facts into a story and allowed quiet snooze time; plus the rest stops were well-spaced. On the first day we actually were in 3 states!!! Jade's yummy restaurant selections served the needs of each of the travelers' dietary requirements and the overnight accommodations were clean, comfortable & provided a nourishing breakfast. A special shout-out to Jade for her ability to ""herd cats"" while being attentive to each traveler's personal needs. She engaged with each of us in conversation and was delightful with a good sense of humor. A warm Thank You to Jade and Bindlestiff Tours!!!

Tour guide a great humanist able to reach out to all, domestic and foreign, to first form individual friendships that then led collectively to group bonding to experience nature's wonders. All members of our group became friends sharing the influence of our guide who understands human nature the way God would have it.

Overall, the tour was very fun and we'll put together. The tour guides were all friendly, and seemed to work well as a team. Accomodations were not bad, but there were better options directly adjacent. Food options were pretty much all fast food, which makes sense for the tour concept. However, dinner options could have been a bit better. We really would have appreciated a little more hiking and exploring time, and a couple of the guides did the best to accommodate that. However, 20 minute stops are just not enough time to get "out and experience" the areas.

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"Fabulous! I just returned from Bindlestiff's Grand Canyon & more 3 day tour. It was Fabulous! It provided a well-planned itinerary of fascinating places (Zion National Park, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon (optional & a must!), Monument Valley & the Grand Canyon. We were a perfect size group of twelve international travelers in a comfy van plus our delightful Tour Guide, Jade. We had enough time to immerse ourselves in each location and enjoy each experience. When on the road, Jade played upbeat themed music, weaved interested facts into a story and allowed quiet snooze time; plus the rest stops were well-spaced. On the first day we actually were in 3 states!!! Jade's yummy restaurant selections served the needs of each of the travelers' dietary requirements and the overnight accommodations were clean, comfortable & provided a nourishing breakfast. A special shout-out to Jade for her ability to ""herd cats"" while being attentive to each traveler's personal needs. She engaged with each of us in conversation and was delightful with a good sense of humor. A warm Thank You to Jade and Bindlestiff Tours!!!

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"Overall, the tour was very fun and we'll put together. The tour guides were all friendly, and seemed to work well as a team. Accomodations were not bad, but there were better options directly adjacent. Food options were pretty much all fast food, which makes sense for the tour concept. However, dinner options could have been a bit better. We really would have appreciated a little more hiking and exploring time, and a couple of the guides did the best to accommodate that. However, 20 minute stops are just not enough time to get "out and experience" the areas.

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Nice for everyone and great for seniors, canyon dave tours are perfect for seniors as well as families.

  Our patient guides are solicitous of your comfort and safety. There are step stools and always a helping hand as you exit and re-enter the van at every viewpoint. If you get tired you can even remain in the van or sit nearby (we'll get you a chair). Here you might want to read one of our colorful take-home handouts about the Grand Canyon.

  If you use a compact and light-weight foldable chair or walker, we can usually fit it in the back, though we can't lift you in or out of the van.

  Don't worry about accessibility when you plan your Grand Canyon vacation. Even if your mobility is somewhat limited, there is so much to see that we will be walking slowly. Besides, some seniors are mobile just like the younger participants--possibly even more so!

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AARP's Guide to Grand Canyon National Park

Experience the majesty of the natural wonder — gorges, alcoves, and rocks resembling castles.

by Bill Fink, AARP , Updated August 10, 2021

Tuan Tran/Getty Images

En español | President Teddy Roosevelt visited the Grand Canyon in 1903, telling applauding crowds at the South Rim that “Arizona has a natural wonder which ... is absolutely unparalleled throughout the rest of the world ... one of the great sights which every American ... should see.” He declared the Grand Canyon a national monument in 1908, with it finally achieving national park status in 1919 after a long political battle with powerful local mining interests.

Nowadays, Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP), with its 1.2 million acres of sweeping landscapes, raging rapids and winding trails, is well on its way to fulfilling Teddy Roosevelt's desire, welcoming more than 6 million visitors annually. And it is indeed a “grand” canyon: Carved from millions of years of the Colorado River's powerful waters, the multicolored layers of eroded rock drop a full mile of elevation from the rim, split by a chasm averaging 10 miles wide, overlooking 277 miles of a river that has challenged rafters since John Wesley Powell's legendary pioneering journey in 1869.

The Grand Canyon's majesty is much more than just facts and figures. This natural wonder has an overwhelming presence that must be experienced in person, as even the best photos and words can hardly do it justice. But naturalist John Muir tried: “I cannot tell the hundredth part of the wonders of its features — the side canyons, gorges, alcoves, cloisters and amphitheaters of vast sweep and depth, carved in its magnificent walls; the throng of great architectural rocks it contains resembling castles, cathedrals, temples and palaces, towered and spired and painted, some of them nearly a mile high, yet beneath one's feet."

Visitors can experience the Grand Canyon's grandeur in ways as varied as the canyon's rocky ridges. From bus tours and easy strolls along the canyon rim, to the famed mule rides or educational ranger programs, helicopter rides flying above it all, and rafting tours in the Colorado River, there's something for everyone.

While GCNP doesn't track visitor statistics by age group, it's revealing that those ages 65 and older represent about half of the guests at the eight lodging facilities in and around the park operated by the Xanterra Collection, according to Hinch Knece, the company's marketing director.

Getty Images/AARP

Location: Northwest Arizona, 80 miles north of Flagstaff

Acreage: 1.2 million acres

Highest peaks, lowest valley: North Rim sits at about 8,000 feet, South Rim at 7,000 feet, with the canyon dropping a mile below them

Miles of trails: 35 miles of paved trails and 560 miles of unpaved paths (and 277 miles of river)

Main attraction: Views from atop the canyon, and adventures into it by foot, mule or raft

Entry fee: $35 for cars (Annual Seniors Pass, $20 for visitors 62 and older)

Best way to see it: From scenic rim-top viewpoints at sunrise and sunset

When to go to avoid biggest crowds: September through May

Plan Your Trip

GCNP is located in northern Arizona about 80 miles from both Flagstaff to the southeast and the Utah border to the north, 230 miles from Phoenix to the south, and 275 miles from Las Vegas to the west. You can visit the 277-mile-long canyon from entrances on the North, South, East and West rims, but the South Rim entrance receives about 90 percent of visitors. It also hosts most of the facilities, on-site lodging and activities, and is more easily accessed than the North Rim. The eastern entrance, a lesser-trafficked gate, lies about a 25-mile drive from the South Rim facilities, while Grand Canyon West is a Hualapai tribal development outside of GCNP's boundaries with a glass-bottom scenic skywalk jutting precariously over the canyon cliff, as well as a zipline, rafting excursions, cultural demonstrations, food and lodging.

The North Rim closes November through April, but the rest of the park remains open year round. Admission is $35 per vehicle, good for seven days ($20, Annual Seniors Pass for ages 62 and older). Save time at the gate by buying a digital pass in advance at recreation.gov, or from an outlet in the towns of Tusayan, the South Rim gateway just a mile outside the park, or Williams, 60 miles south.

Summer months and holidays are the park's busiest times. If you visit then, avoid traffic, parking hassles and lines at the South Rim entrance by taking a free shuttle bus from Tusayan, about a 20-minute ride to that gate's South Rim Visitors Center. You can also detour to the East Entrance via AZ 64, and then take a scenic 25-mile-drive along the canyon to reach the South Rim. Or for a particularly fun way to get there, ride the Grand Canyon Railway to the South Rim from Williams in old-time Pullman cars, a journey popular with older adults. Amtrak stops at Williams and farther south at Flagstaff, where it offers shuttle service to the park. Once at the South Rim, hop on ADA-compliant shuttle buses that operate on four routes for easy access to viewpoints, trailheads, lodging and dining (though lines can be long at bus stops in peak seasons).

To avoid the crowds altogether, visit in the slow season from November to February (not holidays), and potentially get treated to a phenomenal snow-covered version of the park. After a fresh snowfall, the canyon looks like an epic orange layer cake with vanilla frosting.

Park weather can surprise visitors, given the rim's altitude of more than 7,000 feet above sea level. The high temperature in midwinter averages in the 40s, with lows in the teens, and regular snowfall. Even in summer, when highs average in the mid-80s and can easily top 100 degrees, mornings and evenings remain chilly, with temperatures dropping precipitously into the 40s. Temperatures at the canyon's base, a mile below, can be more than 30 degrees warmer than at the rim. On any visit, dress in layers, and — given the high and dry environment — stay hydrated.

The South Rim facilities are grouped in three main areas spread over approximately three miles near the canyon. The South Entrance Road winds first past the Visitor Center area, then continues west for a mile to Market Plaza, a practical hub with shops, Park Headquarters, lodging and campgrounds. Another mile west brings you to Grand Canyon Village, the historic center and activity base for visitors, with food, lodging, museums and the train depot. Limited parking is available at each area, with remote lots served by free shuttles.

Cell phone access within the park can be spotty (and nonexistent in the valley), but the Grand Canyon Lodges’ six properties in the park recently upgraded their wireless systems, providing much improved connectivity for guests. You'll find free Wi-Fi at the Park Headquarters, as well as the Canyon Village Market Deli and the Community Library (a half-mile from the train depot).

Where to Stay and Eat

Norman Wharton / Alamy Stock Photo

El Tovar Hotel

Whatever your taste in lodging — perhaps super deluxe or maybe no frills — GCNP has you covered. But it's important to know that the park's accommodations are typically booked up a year in advance for summer and holiday visits.

The 78-room El Tovar Hotel , built in 1905 and perched proudly like a mountain chalet footsteps from the South Rim's edge, has been called the “Crown Jewel of National Park Lodges.” With moose and elk hunting trophies jutting from vaulted wood ceilings towering over roaring fireplaces, you can imagine Teddy Roosevelt sitting in the lounge trading tall tales with his Rough Rider mates, one of whom built a still extant cabin nearby. You can rent it — the Buckey O'Neill Cabin — at the Bright Angel Lodge, which has 37 basic rooms, many with a shared bathroom, and 53 cabins. Other South Rim options include the 55-room Kachina and 49-room Thunderbird lodges (affordable and contemporary accommodations), and the Maswik Lodge (280 motel rooms).

On the North Rim, Grand Canyon Lodge has 40 basic motel rooms and 179 cabins (nestled in pines) ranging from basic to more deluxe, six with rim views. At the canyon's base, Phantom Ranch is a rustic destination available only via tour operators and a lottery system.

If camping is more your style, you'll have plenty of company. On the South Rim, the 325 sites at the Mather Campground (near Market Plaza facilities, no RV hookups) and the 123 at Trailer Village (about a half-mile from Mather, full RV hookups) are often booked up. Both have laundromats and pay showers, and there are nearby markets. The more rustic Desert View Campground has 50 first-come-first-served campsites for tents and RVs. Sites fill up by noon in high season. The North Rim has a 90-site campground (no RV hookups) with shower facilities and a nearby market. To escape it all, backcountry permits are available. Permit costs vary among the campgrounds, ranging from $6 to $50 per night, with a 50 percent discount for the Seniors Pass. Reservation policies vary, as well.

South Rim food options are plentiful. Bite into the filet mignon with jalapeno chimichurri sauce at the classically elegant El Tovar Dining Room. Stop by for a prickly pear margarita even if you're not dining there. For more casual fare, try Fred Harvey Burger at the Bright Angel Lodge, serving family-friendly fare (with king-size ice cream scoops for dessert); and the Maswik Food Court, next to Maswik Lodge, satisfying appetites with cafeteria food and pizza. Food trucks rove around cooking up tasty tacos and more. For picnic lunches or to stock up for camping, head to the Canyon Village Market & Deli in the Market Plaza area near the campgrounds.

Things to Do

M.G. Family Photography/Getty Images

Staring and marveling at the Grand Canyon is the obvious thing to do, but so many other activities available will help enhance your visit. Maybe you can't do all five of these well-worth-it ones highlighted here, but doing at least some should ensure you'll long remember your time at this spellbinding natural wonder. Note: An accessibility guide helps those with impaired mobility or vision decide the best options for them.

Explore 1.8 billion years of history: Sure, the canyon looks pretty, but how in the world did it get here? The park becomes so much more than a scenic hole in the ground when you learn about the area's natural and human history. Joining a free ranger-led tour from the park's three visitors centers is a great way to get started. “Seniors and families have really liked the geology talks and the critter chats,” says Joelle Baird, park information officer. A self-guided walk along the Trail of Time (see below) reveals 1.8 billion years of geologic change in the canyon, culminating in displays at the Yavapai Geology Museum at the trail's east end. Also learn about the people who have made the park what it is. Grand Canyon Village tells the story of native tribes at the Hopi House, of pioneering photographers at Kolb Studio, and the naturalists and explorers at Verkamp's Visitor Center.

Go for a hike:  Whether you want a casual stroll to a viewpoint or a heart-pounding climb into the canyon, the variety of GCNP's 35 miles of paved trails and 560 miles of unpaved paths ensures you'll find what's just right for you. While the treks into the canyon can be extreme, “you don't need to go below the rim to appreciate the park,” says Baird. While she sees “a large number of seniors go into the canyon” on shorter hikes, she stresses it's still important “to know your limits, especially with the heat and elevation” at the park.

The most easily accessible and popular hike is the paved Rim Trail, a 13-mile path along the canyon from the Hermit's Rest viewpoint west of the Village to Yaki Point to the east, with many scenic overlooks and photo-worthy stops. Insider tip: To provide human scale within a photo, walk a bit outside the Village, then snap a shot back at people gathered at the overlooks there.

Within the Rim Trail, the Trail of Time segment is the most worthwhile, combining awe-inspiring views with interpretive signage detailing the canyon's history. The 2.8-mile route lies between the Yavapai Geology Museum and Verkamp's Visitor Center, with benches for resting, occasional shady spots and rock displays from the 1.8 billion years of geologic history.

For something a little more adventurous, but still relatively moderate, take a guided 1.8-mile round-trip walk down and back up the South Kaibab Trail, leaving from Verkamp's. The turnaround spot at “Ooh Aah Point” delivers stunning 360-degree views of the canyon depths and up to the rim.

Follow the sun:  Come to the park early or stay late for bucket-list worthy sunrises and sunsets. The changing light reveals colors and contours not visible under the blazing midday sun, almost like you're visiting three different parks in one as the day changes. See the shadows play behind towering rock spires as the sun dips to the horizon, bright reds and oranges dimming to soft hues like a movie fading to a close. At sunrise, nature's theater curtain opens with hints of light gradually revealing the majesty below.

The South Rim's popular viewpoints can get crowded, particularly near the South Rim Visitor Center at Mather Point (sunrise) and at Hopi Point (sunset), so stroll along the Rim Trail to a quieter spot — even if it isn't the “ultimate” overlook, it's still going to be pretty darn good. Along Desert View Drive, Pima and Lipan points are less crowded for catching the sunset; try Yaki Point for sunrise. Or tap into local savvy with a Grand Canyon Lodges’ sunset or sunrise bus tour; in-the-know tour leaders take you to the best spots that particular day given the conditions.

Hop on a mule:  While fun, riding a sure-footed mule to the canyon floor, a longtime park tradition, may sound a bit too grueling and nerve-racking for you. If so, enjoy a similar experience, minus any angst, with an easy and relaxing mule ride along the South Rim — two hours in the saddle with frequent stops for talks with the rangers. Riders are shuttled from Grand Canyon Village to a corral, where wranglers help with riding instructions. At the North Rim, Grand Canyon Lodge offers slow-paced, one-hour and half-day rides with shuttles from the lodge.

Watch the stars:  The Grand Canyon has been designated a “Dark Sky” location due to its prime viewing conditions — high elevation, dry atmosphere and limits on artificial light. The dazzling display, including a Milky Way so bright and close you feel you can touch it, makes the Grand Canyon seem small. Yes, small. The less-developed, darker North Rim draws stargazers year round, but even at the South Rim, Yavapai Point provides an easily accessible spot to set up a telescope or just gaze upward. Or park along Desert View Drive at Lipan Point for excellent gazing.

Gateway Towns

In the small town of Tusayan (population: 587), the South Rim's gateway, be sure to visit the privately run Grand Canyon Visitor Center for a good orientation to the park — it has an information center, tour-operator section and a popular IMAX theater that showcases the Grand Canyon on a six-story screen. The town's half-dozen lodging options range from the budget 7 Mile Lodge to the upscale Grand Canyon Lodge. Dine at the Big E Steakhouse and Wagon Wheel Saloon for some Old West-style ambience and hearty burgers, ribs and steaks.

The North Rim doesn't have any gateway cities of note, but is served by a one-stop shop: The family owned and operated Jacob Lake Inn, 42 miles north the park entrance, offers a hotel, motel and cabins along with dining and a gift shop. Jacob Lake is also a good jumping off point for excursions to southern Utah's national parks, such as Bryce and Zion.

The park's eastern entrance, near the village of Cameron, has a couple of small souvenir shops, diners and Cameron Trading Post, with a motel, RV park, gift shop, gallery and restaurant. It's nearby the little-known but worth-visiting Grand Falls waterfalls, over 181 feet tall and aka “The Chocolate Niagara” for its sometime muddy waters. Nearby, you can go flat-water rafting.

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Williams, 60 miles south of the park, has a downtown full of charming Route 66 kitsch, with a dozen gift shops, a few friendly diners, cowboy street performances and the Grand Canyon Railway depot. While there, try the delicious burritos at El Corral 66 or the family-friendly pub grub (and tasty microbrews) at the Historic Barrel and Bottle House. Williams is also a base for area activities such as fishing, golfing and hiking.

Flagstaff is a destination in itself, a high desert retreat particularly popular with Phoenix residents who drive the 80 miles north (and nearly 6,000 feet uphill) to escape the summer heat. Three top things to do around the area: Visit the Lowell Observatory (the place where Pluto was discovered) and its science center; go to the Arizona Snowbowl ski resort for summer hikes as well as downhill skiing in winter (yes, in Arizona); and tour the Bearizona wildlife park for its cute bear cubs and other wildlife. Dining and shopping options pack Flagstaff's downtown, and there's plentiful lodging in and around town.

Do make a side trip to Meteor Crater National Landmark, 45 miles east of Flagstaff, even if you think you'll get your fill of canyons at the national park. The mile-wide, 550-foot-deep impact crater is an impressive cosmic contrast to the Grand Canyon's gently eroded landscape. Take time to stop at the visitors center for fascinating science exhibits and films.

PHOTO BY: Richard Broadwell / Alamy Stock Photo

Grand Canyon Lodge is perched on the North Rim, offering rooms and cabins.

PHOTO BY: Peter Unger/Getty Images

The Rim Trail, a 13-mile paved path, is the park’s most easily accessible and popular hike.

PHOTO BY: Patrick J. Endres/Getty Images

Travelers along the Colorado River in Grand Canyon pitch a tent in the narrow Blacktail Canyon.

PHOTO BY: miroslav_1/Getty Images

The sunset over the canyon is often spectacular, viewed here from Mather Point along the South Rim.

PHOTO BY: spasticlizard/Getty Images

Many visitors opt for a guided mule ride down to the canyon floor — a bit too nerve-wracking for some, though.

PHOTO BY: imageBROKER/Valentin Wolf/Getty Images

Millions of visitors flock to the park every year to see the jaw-dropping canyon landscape, viewed here from the South Rim.

PHOTO BY: AARP

You can see for miles from the South Rim — including when a summer storm sweeps across the canyon. 

PHOTO BY: Photography by Deb Snelson/Getty Images

You can see the North Rim of the canyon and beyond from the Desert View Watchtower on the South Rim.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on July 24, 2020. It's been updated to reflect recent COVID-19 developments.

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Zion National Park for Seniors: Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon

• By Suddenly Senior · Mar 26, 2018

Advice and tips for seniors traveling to the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park. Learn how to safely travel with a group.

One Trip You Must Make Before You Die

Patricia Schultz’s 1,000 Places to See Before You Die isn’t for seniors, especially those of us now in our eighth decade. Regrettably, we haven’t the time, the energy, or the money.

But what if it were a more realistic Five Places… ?

In our book, one of them would certainly be a tour of those three grand natural American cathedrals of northern Arizona and southern Utah: Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion Canyon. Each is a national treasure, unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Each leaves you whomperjawed. And each is more audacious, more stunningly beautiful than the others.

We know. For those of us who already have experienced the Grand Canyon, we wonder, “How can anything be more magnificent than that?”

Maybe it can’t. But the profound experience of these three natural wonders is beyond visual. It’s visceral, and their immense, majestic glory gets under your skin and into your heart, and never leaves.

But let’s start at the beginning.

Our eight-day, $995 Caravan Tour (see below) last fall of the Grand Canyon, Sedona, Lake Powell, Monument Valley, Bryce, and Zion began at Phoenix’s swank DoubleTree Suites. There we met our fellow travelers, guide and bus driver for our welcome briefing. (We had flown to Phoenix a couple of days earlier to get reacquainted with the city and friends living there.)

The next day we visited the Montezuma Castle cliff dwellings, with its 15,000 years of history, on our way to Sedona, the only disappointment of our trip.

Montezuma Castle, site of 12th and 13th-century cliff dwellings

We’d visited this popular area 25 years earlier. Maybe we’re more jaded this time around, but this still beautiful community set in the red rocks of northern Arizona has matured from an artists’ colony to an overpriced luxury destination of the rich and famous.

However, Carolyn and others swore they felt the reinvigorating energy vortexes for which the area is noted, making the experience unique and worthwhile.

Bushwhacked by God (Our Grand Canyon Trip for Seniors)

Everyone has his or her own Grand Canyon first impression. Most include utter surprise – like being bushwhacked by God.

You see, there’s nothing to prepare you for this magnificent six-million-year old hole in the ground. All you see, especially coming in from the south, is flat and dry. Even though the north rim of this massive rift in the Colorado Plateau is about 1,000 feet higher, the edge must be approached within mere yards before its overwhelming size and intricate and colorful landscape reveal themselves.

Suddenly, you’re looking down 7,000 feet through two billion years of history to the Colorado River below. And this vast chasm is at places 18 miles across!

If you’re fit, you may have time to descend to the bottom and back or do some serious hiking or bicycling. Maverick Helicopters provide incredible rim-to-rim views from $175.

We took the free park bus, operating every 10 to 20 minutes, to various viewpoints along the south rim, photographing the ever-changing canyon face under the afternoon’s setting sun – and the next morning’s rising sun – capturing many facets of this glorious tribute to Mother Nature.

Nearly five million tourists visit Grand Canyon each year, most from their cars. A National Park Service ranger told me that the average stay is 15 minutes. What a shame! We’ve been there a half dozen times now, and the view is always different, always magnificent – always spiritual.

Late the next afternoon we enjoyed a scenic boat cruise gazing up at Lake Powell’s dramatically steep, glowing red sandstone walls just above the Glen Canyon Dam. We’re floating on 700-feet of water that provides the power that runs much of the West.

A short drive the next morning takes us to the Navajo Indian Nation and Monument Valley. This is John Wayne country. Filmmaker John Ford filmed 10 of his Westerns here with stars the likes of Henry Fonda, Jimmy Stewart, Maureen O’Hara, and of course, John Wayne.

Other films, from 2001 to Easy Rider, Thelma & Louise, Mission: Impossible II, and Forrest Gump all took advantage of this valley’s vivid red color schemes.

Still part of the Colorado Plateau, it’s a magical, pristine area of buttes and arches – sacred to the Navajos – that is seen best by a Caravan-provided Jeep on a 17-mile dirt road.

Hoodoo Voodoo (Bryce Canyon for Seniors)

After a beautiful drive northwest through brilliant red, yellow, and pink fall foliage, Bryce Canyon at up to 9,100 feet elevation, turns out not to be a canyon at all, but a series of magnificent horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters carved from the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau in southern Utah.

Known as “The Most Colorful Park in America,” Bryce is famous for its vertical towers called hoodoos.

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Get reservations at one of the lodges inside the park. Drive or take the shuttles to various overlooks, you do not need to hike to see the canyon and you don't have to go right to the edge to see the views.. Check http://www.nps.gov/grca for plenty of information.

http://www.visitsedona.com

I have a bit of vertigo and there are places I cannot look down and places that I have no problem with there. And when I'm a fair distance away- 15 feet or so- frankly I get just as good a look at the Canyon as opposed to the floor of the Canyon. There's a very nice level walkway along the Rim where you can all walk/amble as well.

You will not be able to make lodging reservations in the park lodges until September 1 2012 for September 2013. However there will be plenty of choices when that time comes, so don't worry about booking some other hotel outside the park.

Now - the first alarm bells that went off for me were these: please tell me that a. you and your husband are going to actually travel with them out here; if not then b. I hope your folks don't object to driving up to 5 hours at a stretch? Because the most convenient airports to start your trip from ( Phoenix Sky Harbor PHX and Las Vegas McCarran LAS) are that far away. Mass transit (busses, trains, etc.) is virtually non-existent and what little there is is very inconvenient.

So assuming that you and your husband are going to serve as coordinators, chauffeurs, navigators, etc., after determining how long you'll spend in the area, flights , etc., the first priority is to get lodging at the Grand Canyon booked. Try to get inside the park, and try to get them at either the El Tovar or Bright Angel Lodges. There are 6 hotels total inside the park, but the two aforementioned are historic and therefore more special. The El Tovar is the stately old hotel (c1905) and the most "up-market" of the two; Bright Angel Lodge (c1934) is quaint and cozy, consists of mostly cabins. The other 4 ( Kachina , Thunderbird , Maswik , Yavapai) date back to the 60's and 70's and are more your standard park motel fare. But if the latter 4 are more within your budget, take whatever works inside the park. It will be more convenient for you and your folks to be able to just park the car at the hotel then use the shuttles to get around the Grand Canyon Village and out to the Hermit's Rest Road. Here's a video describing the in-park lodges ->:

http://youtu.be/TxKgGLm4Zss The info about Maswik is a little out of date - they have since converted their sports bar into a "Pizza Pub" - but the rest of the information given is accurate.

All the in-park lodges are administered by Xanterra South Rim LLC. They open up reservations 13 months out, so for September 2013, they'll start taking reservations in August 2012. Visit http://www.grandcanyonlodges.com for more info, pictures, etc., or call 888-297-2757.

For inside the park, a guided tour is a bonus certainly but not 100% necessary. Fortunately the Grand Canyon is one of those parks that is very easy to self-tour. When you enter the park, you'll receive a map pointing out the roads that are open to in-park vehicles (the majority of them are) and what you can/should see depending on the time you have to do it. But if you prefer to have someone else do the driving for you, Xanterra also offers several very reasonably priced guided motorcoach tours.

If your folks have other goals in mind such as getting to the bottom of the canyon, doing a little rafting (doesn't have to be white water), that's where guided tours can come in. There are jeep tours that go to the bottom of the canyon and best of all they don't go along any cliff-hugger type roads; you can also do a half-day raft trip on the Colorado River that's entirely smooth water. One technicality: these activities will take you to areas outside Grand Canyon National Park such as Indian Reservation lands and other parts of the Colorado River outside the borders of the Grand Canyon. So make sure you have plenty of "quality time" at the Grand Canyon before considering any of these activities.

Dang, I've rambled on here this morning! I do have other ideas to contribute, but I'll let you digest this and allow the other DE's to chime in.

Good luck and please continue to ask questions.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Grand Canyon National Park Hotels and Places to Stay

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• Is there 1-day Rafting at Grand Canyon National Park, Sedona or Nearby?
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Rivers & Oceans

Rafting and Adventure Travel

Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

Colorado River Whitewater & Camping 2024 and 2025 Seasons

Grand Canyon White Water Rafting

With over 100 different Colorado River rafting options, planning the best Grand Canyon white water rafting trip can be challenging. Many people find it easiest and quickest to talk with one of our Adventure Specialists at (928) 526-4575 . We can help you narrow down the rafting trip options for the 2024 and 2025 seasons to those available vacations that fit into your schedule.

Since 1987 our service has been free and we work with all 16 Grand Canyon river outfitters. The cost is guaranteed to be the same rate you would get booking directly with an outfitter. See our quick reading step-by-step how to book a Grand Canyon rafting trip or read our more detailed information below.

2026 Grand Canyon, Arizona Rafting Dates

We are currently booking trips in 2024 and 2025. Launch dates for 2026 Grand Canyon rafting season will start being released in late fall of 2024. Get on our list to be contacted about 2026 dates meeting your criteria as they become available. Looking for something soon, you can even book a last-minute Grand Canyon rafting trip for this year.

Our Best Grand Canyon Rafting Advice

Select a trip that allows you to spend as much time as possible white water rafting in the Grand Canyon. The majority of guests wish they would have spent additional time on the river. If you aren’t sure where to start, a 7-day motor full canyon (see video ) is one of our most popular vacations. However, if you want a human-powered oar, paddle, dory, or hybrid trip (combo of oar, paddle, and sometimes dories), try rafting the Upper Canyon (approximately 6 days) and hike out to the South Rim. If you had fun, float the Lower Canyon next time.

Colorado River Rafting Basics

A Colorado River rafting trip through Grand Canyon National Park provides a whitewater rafting and camping vacation like no other. Towering cliffs, cool lush grottoes, thrilling rapids, and giant sand beaches can be experienced throughout the canyon corridor while guides share their knowledge of the natural and human history of the area. Colorado River white water rapids are rated from one to 10, with 10 being the hardest runnable rapid and equivalent to rafting class IV+ whitewater on the international scale.

Each day is different and full; a mix of rapids and smooth water, hikes to hidden side canyons, water falls, and remnants of ancient indigenous dwellings with pottery. Camp out under the canyon walls next to the Colorado River. Rafting permits you to experience the canyon from a unique and impressive perspective. Learn more in our Grand Canyon Rafting FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions).

Find Your Colorado River Adventure…

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Map of Grand Canyon and Arizona

River Trip Length

Within Grand Canyon National Park, the Colorado River flows 277 miles from Lees Ferry, Arizona (below Lake Powell) to Pearce Ferry, Arizona (at Lake Mead). Between April and October it is possible to raft one (35 miles) to 18 days (225+ miles) in the canyon. For those that want a full Grand Canyon float trip, the typical itinerary is 8 days by motor rig or 14 to 16 days in dories, oar boats, or paddle rafts . At Rivers & Oceans, we break down rafting the Grand Canyon into three categories: one-day motor trip , two-day overnight tour , and 3 to 16-day expeditions (multi-day).

Rafting Down the Grand Canyon in One or Two-days

One and two-day Grand Canyon river trips float the lower part of the canyon. Rafters meet in Peach Springs, Arizona before launching from Diamond Creek on the Hualapai Indian Reservation. Trips take-out (finish) at Pearce Ferry. The one-day expedition is guided by Hualapai Native American guides on snout motor rigs . The two-day trips paddle raft and then motor raft after a night camping at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. In addition, there is no required hiking in or out of the canyon on these two trips. The longer 3 to 16-day expeditions are broken up by river section below .

Time of Year to Raft Grand Canyon

Every season in the Grand Canyon comes with unique beauties and challenges. In April and May the canyon has cooler temperatures. This means bringing extra layers for warmth, but allows for longer hikes while the wildflowers are in bloom. Spring can bring strong up-canyon winds. June through August are the hottest and busiest months to raft down the Grand Canyon, with temperatures ranging from 95-115°F. See current Grand Canyon temperatures .

Monsoon season starts in July and goes through August, bringing afternoon clouds and rain showers to cool the canyon. These two months also have the biggest whitewater, with the river running at its highest level for the season. As the Arizona rafting season winds down in September and October, expect cooler weather, longer hikes, and shorter days. We have more information on our blog about  monthly weather variations during the rafting season .

Colorado River Temperature in Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Colorado River water temperature at Lees Ferry (mile 0) varies between 48° and 56°F depending upon the season and depth of the water behind Glen Canyon Dam in Lake Powell. Near Diamond Creek (mile 225) towards the end of the Grand Canyon, the water ranges from 45°F during the winter to 65°F during the heat of the summer. Flash flooding side-canyons can temporarily increase the water temperature. Side streams are typically much warmer and ideal for swimming and soaking. See current river temperature at Lees Ferry .

Luxury Grand Canyon Vacations

Grand Canyon companies do not offer luxury rafting trips. However, all outfitters provide chairs in camp, and the food is nicer than what most expect when camping. Some companies offer cots to sleep on instead of pads on the ground. Lunches are picnic style riverside stops. Most trips are all-inclusive except for alcohol, but you can bring your own or order through the outfitter. Check out our packing list for Grand Canyon to see the gear and clothing you will want to bring.

For those that want a luxury trip, there are a few options. Sign-up for an expedition on another river in the western United States such as the Rogue River Canyon in Oregon, which has lodges, or Salmon River in Idaho, which offers luxury options. Otherwise,  charter a Grand Canyon trip  that can be customized to meet your group’s needs.

Charter Expeditions

It’s quite common for groups to inquire about chartering a private tour (called a Custom Charter or Private Trip ), preferring to vacation with their friends and companions. A chartered expedition to raft Grand Canyon, allows for a tailored experience. These trips are our specialty. If you’d like to learn more about planning a charter trip, check out Rivers & Oceans Custom Adventures (ROCA) .

Rafting by Motor versus Human-Power (non-motor)

Motorized expeditions (see picture below of J-rig , S-rig and C-craft motor options) typically cover more of the Grand Canyon in less time than the human-powered oar, paddle, dory, and hybrid trips. Motor rigs also usually run their engine for most of the expedition, which cause some to choose the non-motorized alternatives. Senior groups typically select motor rafts since they are more comfortable for the full days traveling down canyon. A small subset of human-powered expeditions have a motor support boat that usually travels behind the group. Please give us a call if you want to insure your Colorado River rafting trip has or does not have a motor support raft.

Types of Human Powered Rafting Trips

Non-motorized expeditions, also called human-powered, are broken into four categories: all paddle, oar, dory, and hybrid. All-paddle trips are where everyone participates by paddling in a raft with a guide in the back steering and calling commands through rapids and the flatwater. There are extra oar rafts to carry all the gear. Guests on oar and dory boat trips hold-on while a guide positioned on oars in the center of the boat rows downriver. Grand Canyon hybrid trip options typically have one paddle and five oar rafts. Guests take turns riding in the paddle boat. Some hybrid trips also bring a dory along, and guests rotate through that craft as well. Of the non-motorized Grand Canyon options hybrid trips are the most popular.

Variations in the Number of Guests and Days

A non-motor rafting trip has far fewer guests in each boat during the day, 5 to 7 versus 15 to 20 on a motor raft. Both types can have ample time for hiking along the canyon depending upon the number of days used to cover a section of the Colorado River. For example, 6-day Motorized Full Canyon guests have minimal time for hiking, while 9-day Motorized Full Canyon motor participants find ample time for hiking and exploring. Check out our blog post on the types of whitewater crafts in Grand Canyon to learn more.

Grand Canyon National Park: Rafting Costs

A vacation whitewater rafting in Grand Canyon ranges from $399 for a motorized one-day to $7000 for an 18-day oar trip. Colorado River rafting trips are all inclusive with no additional costs once on the water. Below is a table breaking down the trip options and cost ranges. If the trip costs seem prohibitive check out some more moderately priced rafting tours on other whitewater rivers in the western United States .

Choosing a Grand Canyon Outfitter

All the  Grand Canyon companies  are professionals, and we started working with them over 30 years ago. Since demand to raft down the Colorado River is high, we recommend selecting commercial river trip based on your time frame, budget, and trip type, rather than by outfitter. If there are itineraries with different outfitters that meet your needs, we can steer you towards the trip that will mesh best with your preferences. As licensed concessionaires by the National Park Service, Grand Canyon whitewater rafting companies are required to hire guides with extensive wilderness first aid, swiftwater rescue and food safety certifications. In addition, guides from all the companies are knowledgeable of the flora, fauna, geology and human history of the canyon.

Drought and the Colorado River

Since Lake Powell sits just upstream of Grand Canyon and it has to release water to Lake Mead for use by Las Vegas, Phoenix and California, there will be raftable flows for the entire season (April-October) going forward even in drought years. Trips can and have been run lower than the scheduled flows for the coming seasons. Learn more about how drought is affecting rafting in the west .

Choose the Best Trip for Your Group

Grand Canyon 1-Day Trip

One amazing day. Single-day rafting trips include whitewater, hiking, lunch & helicopter option.

Grand Canyon 2-Day Trip

Spend two days rafting through Grand Canyon and one night camping under the stars.

Grand Canyon Multi-Day Trips

Experience America’s great adventure. Spend 3 to 18 days rafting the Colorado River.

Custom & Charter Tours

Adventure connects people. We customize your adventure from start to finish. Call Us

Grand Canyon Whitewater: 3 to 16 Day Tours

The Grand Canyon has 4 sections, which are known as Full, Upper, Lower, and Western. These sections are defined by the river mile where you start (put-in) and the river mile where you end (take-out). While popular due to their length, Upper and Lower Grand Canyon Trips require a 7.5 to 9-mile hike at either the end (Upper) or start (Lower) . Click the “Read More” button below to see a break down of what rafting each section of the Colorado River has to offer. These are also referred to as multi-day rafting trips.

Upper Grand Canyon: Lees Ferry to Phantom Ranch by Raft, Hike to South Rim

Starting at Lees Ferry (mile 0), Upper Grand Canyon expeditions end at Phantom Ranch (mile 88). To finish your trip here in the deepest part of the canyon, it takes hiking 7 to 9-miles up the Bright Angel Trail to the South Rim while gaining 5000 feet of elevation. These trips float the Colorado River in around 5 to 6 days on oar and paddle rafts. Motor rafting trips rarely end here.

Upper Highlights

Highlights floating this section include limestone-walled Marble Canyon, ancient sea fossils, Stanton’s Cave, Vasey’s Paradise, Redwall Cavern, the Puebloan Granaries and ruins at Nankoweap Canyon, the aqua-blue Little Colorado River, and the geologist pleasing Great Unconformity. Whitewater enthusiasts will enjoy rafting House Rock Rapid, the Roaring 20’s, and Georgie’s Rapid in the upper canyon. The last full river day takes the expedition into the first Granite Gorge with 2-billion-year-old Vishnu Schist (oldest rock in the canyon) and the biggest rapids of Upper Grand Canyon River Tours: Hance, Sockdolager, and Grapevine.

Lower Grand Canyon: Hike to Phantom Ranch, Raft to Whitmore Wash, Diamond Creek or Pearce Ferry

Rafting adventures down the Lower Section of Grand Canyon  start at the South Rim with a 7 to 9-mile hike to the Colorado River at Pipe Creek (mile 89.5) or Phantom Ranch (mile 88). The hike descends 5000 feet of elevation along the   Bright Angel Trail to the bottom of the river canyon. Journeys will end at one of three take out points depending on the trip selected: Whitmore Wash (mile 188), Diamond Creek (mile 225), or Pearce Ferry (mile 280). The Whitmore Wash take-out consists of a 5-minute helicopter ride to Bar 10 Ranch on the North Rim followed by a small plane flight to Las Vegas or your starting point (Page, Marble Canyon, or the South Rim).

Lower Highlights

A Colorado River rafting trip on this section takes around 8-days for oar and paddle rafts. Motor tours rarely begin here. Common stops on this section include Blacktail Canyon, Elves Chasm, Shinumo Grotto, Stone Creek Falls, Tapeats Creek, Thunder River, Deer Creek Falls, Matkatamiba Canyon, and Havasu Creek . The pinnacle of Arizona river running is the whitewater in the lower section. Raft the Colorado’s most famous rapids, Lava Falls and Crystal , along with many other exhilarating drops like Horn, Hermit, Granite Falls, the Gems, Deubendorff, and Upset Rapid.

Upper vs. Lower

There are some minor differences between rafting the Upper and Lower canyon. The Upper begins in scenic Marble Canyon and travels down through each geologic layer of the canyon. The lower canyon trip floats through the biggest rapids of the Colorado River tours and includes some of the biggest hikes in the canyon. However, the most significant difference is hiking in from the rim versus hiking out of the canyon. Many people assume hiking into the Grand Canyon will be easier, and they are right to a degree – it takes less time. However, on the days following the hike, many people can barely walk because they are so sore from the pounding their bodies took. The hike out of the Grand Canyon may take longer, but feet and legs are less beat up from the ascent. Plus, when hiking out, you can be tired and sore for a couple of days when you are flying home or back at work. Being too sore to participate in hikes on the trip can be a bummer. While we love both sections, we typically encourage those interested in week-long oar and paddle trips to start with the upper canyon.

Colorado River & Grand Canyon Highlights Map

Full Grand Canyon: Raft from Lees Ferry to Whitmore Wash, Diamond Creek or Pearce Ferry

The grandest canyon expedition, floating the Full Grand Canyon allows river runners to experience the upper and lower canyons and sometimes the western canyon. Journeys launch at Lees Ferry (mile 0) and raft the Colorado River to one of three take out points: Whitmore Wash (mile 188 – by Helicopter), Diamond Creek (mile 225), or Pearce Ferry (mile 280). The most common human-powered trip takes 14 days to raft the full canyon. However, these trips can range from 12 to 18 days. The 8-day full canyon motor trip is our most popular for families.

Trip Exchanges

For the Full Canyon there may be an “exchange” during the river tour where a portion of the guests hiking will hike out and a new group of guests will hike into the canyon which can allow time for a short hike up the Kaibab Trail along Bright Angel Creek to the Phantom Ranch historical landmark. However, there is no required hiking on the full canyon and there is an opportunity to stop at the attractions on both the upper and the lower canyon as well as raft over 100 whitewater rapids of the Colorado River.

Western Grand Canyon: Helicopter to Whitmore Wash, then Raft to Pearce Ferry

The Western Grand Canyon trip begins with a small plane ride from Las Vegas, Nevada to Bar 10 Ranch in Arizona perched above on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Many rafting tours spend a night at Bar 10 Ranch before the 5-minute helicopter ride into the canyon to the launch point on the Colorado at Whitmore Wash (mile 188). The western canyon expedition rafts 92 miles downstream to Pearce Ferry (mile 280) over 3 to 5 days with one to 3 nights of camping by oar or motor raft.

Western Canyon Highlights

Attractions on this section of the canyon include the Whitmore Pictographs, Pumpkin Springs and the lower Granite Gorge. Fun whitewater includes Kolb Rapid, Mile 217 Rapid, Travertine Falls, and Killer Fang Falls (Mile 232 Rapid). One-day motor and two-day Grand Canyon raft trips also run the lower part of this section, launching at Diamond Creek (mile 225) and ending at Pearce Ferry. In addition, Western Grand Canyon river rafting trips have no required hiking .

Grand Canyon 3 to 16-Day Whitewater Rafting Sections

Full Canyon Rafting

The ultimate Grand Canyon rafting experience. Take the time to run the entire canyon in 6-18 days. From $2691 per person

Upper Canyon Rafting

Launch at Lee’s Ferry and raft the Colorado for 90 miles in 4-8 days. Hike out at Phantom Ranch. From at $1475 per person

Lower Canyon Rafting

Hike into Phantom Ranch & raft the Lower Grand Canyon in 5-12 Days. Experience Lava Falls. From $2045 per person

Western Canyon Rafting

Helicopter into the canyon. Run rapids of the Colorado, hike, and sleep under the stars in 3-4 days. From $1498 per person

Looking for a less expensive rafting alternative?

Due to their popularity, Grand Canyon whitewater expeditions are more expensive than most other rafting rivers in the western United States. Check out our article on the best rafting rivers outside Grand Canyon.

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Grand Canyon Rafting Reviews

This trip was fabulous from beginning to end. It far exceeded my already high expectations!

A true bucket list trip!

This was one of the most amazing adventures of my life!

Better than I had expected. The views of the Grand Canyon were breathtaking. Hold on to your seat white water was wow!

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Lees Ferry, Grand Canyon National Park

One question we are often asked at Rivers & Oceans is about the difference between taking a one-day and a two-day Grand Canyon rafting trip. Click here for the breakdown.

Keep Reading > Lees Ferry, Grand Canyon National Park

Sun Protection while Whitewater Rafting

When planning a rafting trip through the canyon, it’s important to consider how to best protect yourself from the sun. The combination of all day exposure and reflected sunlight off the water can be intense. Proper protection allows you to get the most out of your trip and avoid sunburn, heat exhaustion, or even skin damage.

Keep Reading > Sun Protection while Whitewater Rafting

Family Whitewater Rafting Trips

In this article, we’ll explore what makes family whitewater rafting trips special, provide tips for planning a successful excursion, and highlight some of the most popular family whitewater rafting trips. Learn about the best option based upon length, difficulty, whitewater, access, and scenery.

Keep Reading > Family Whitewater Rafting Trips

Experts in wilderness travel, we have extensive connections within the industry through our 60+ combined years guiding most of the trips we offer including hundreds of rafting trips in Grand Canyon.

There is no fee for our service, ensuring the cost of your expedition is the same as booking directly with the outfitter  ( Learn more ).

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Grand Canyon Expeditions

Grand Canyon Trips

Discover the adventure of a lifetime with Hatch River Expeditions’ diverse range of Grand Canyon tours. From the thrilling rapids of motorized expeditions to the serene rhythm of oar-powered journeys and the exploratory spirit of hiking-focused adventures, we offer experiences tailored to every type of adventurer.

Motorized Trips

Experience the Grand Canyon like never before on our Motorized Trips. Perfect for thrill-seekers and those looking to maximize their canyon exploration, these trips offer speed, excitement, and unparalleled canyon views.

Connect with the river's soul on our Oar Trips. Ideal for those who seek a closer bond with nature, these eco-friendly journeys provide a peaceful yet engaging way to experience the canyon’s natural beauty.

Hiking Trips

Explore the Grand Canyon's hidden gems on foot with our Hiking Focused Trips. Tailored for outdoor enthusiasts, these adventures combine the thrill of rafting with immersive hiking experiences, revealing the canyon’s secrets up close.

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MOTORIZED TRIPS

Connect with the river’s soul on our Oar Trips. Ideal for those who seek a closer bond with nature, these eco-friendly journeys provide a peaceful yet engaging way to experience the canyon’s natural beauty.

HIKING TRIPS

Explore the Grand Canyon’s hidden gems on foot with our Hiking Focused Trips. Tailored for outdoor enthusiasts, these adventures combine the thrill of rafting with immersive hiking experiences, revealing the canyon’s secrets up close.

Hatch River Expeditions is a pioneer in river rafting adventures, known for introducing countless explorers to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Grand Canyon and the Colorado River since 1934. Founded on a deep passion for adventure and a commitment to environmental stewardship, Hatch has been guiding adventurers through these iconic waters for decades, offering unforgettable experiences that blend thrilling exploration with a profound respect for nature.

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Wondering what to wear on the Colorado River? Be sure to check the weather before your trip so you can make last minute adjustments.

Click here for the 7 day forecast for Phantom Ranch at the bottom of Grand Canyon.

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Flashback friday: early river running boats, packing a dry bag for a grand canyon raft trip, flashback friday: redwall cavern and nankoweap, 5 tips for river rafting with families, flashback friday: stanton’s cave and vasey’s paradise.

Side Hikes on a Grand Canyon River Trip: What You Need to Know

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Rafting the Grand Canyon

Stirring awake, your eyes flutter and focus. You see the constellation Orion, enormous and speckled with rarely-seen tiny stars, fading in the predawn darkness. Then, the sound of rushing water, gurgling and gushing nearby. A canyon wren announces the first rays of light with its unforgettable chromatic down-stepping song. You draw a deep breath of pure fresh air and smile, remembering where you fell asleep… your first river trip! You snuggle back down in your sleeping bag, catch a few more z’s, and wait for the crew’s coffee call.

When was the last time you used the sun as a clock or discovered the freedom of not looking in a mirror for days on end? Imagine travelling back in time and tracing the earth’s history through fantastically coloured rock formations towering thousands of feet above. If you have a desire to get back in touch with your wild side and bathe the grandeur of nature, you need to add a river trip to your bucket list. It’s time to consider a trip like no other… rafting the mighty Colorado through the Grand Canyon.

In 1998, the National Park Service conducted a Grand Canyon Visitor Study concluding the median river guest age at 43. In 2015, a Utah-based river tour company reported the same median and, in addition, 48 per cent of their guests were over 50, with the oldest reigning in at 85!

By following these simple insider tips and hints, you will feel more confident, competent and comfortable on the river. You will bring all the little extras you need, know what to expect on the boat and in camp, and tap into secrets of river rafting that only experienced guides know.

WHERE TO START Motorized boat trips are by far the most popular, convenient and luxurious of all trip types. The Grand Canyon consists of 277 river miles and outfitters offer a variety of trip lengths, from 3-11 days, with a small selection of “put-in” and “take-out” options.

Insider tip: The most stunning scenery and exciting rapids embark from Mile 0, at Lee’s Ferry, and end with a helicopter ride out to the rim at mile 188, Whitmore Wash.

Boating season runs from mid-April to mid-September. Launching mid-May through the end of June will typically provide clear, green water and sunny, pleasant weather.

WHAT TO PACK Keep it light and focus on necessity. Wear outfits for multiple days. Plan on exposure to extreme sun and heat.

Insider tip: If you get too hot, get wet.

In addition to a packing list found on all outfitter websites, don’t forget these essential items:

* Water bottle with a strap or carabiner * Hat with a clip (and a spare just in case yours blows away and sinks) * Sunglasses, sunscreen, and sarong for sun protection. * Splash-resistant camera or cell phone, but don’t expect cell service. All trips are equipped with a satellite phone for emergency evacuations, if necessary. * Headlamp with red light setting, pillow, journal, towel, wet wipes, moisturizing lotion and other essential toiletries. Insider tip: Guides love Dr. Bronner’s pure castile soaps. Environmentally friendly, it suds up well in colder water, and you can use it to wash your hair, body and clothes.

Pack everything in a medium-sized, soft-shell duffle and observe weight requirements, if you chose a trip with a helicopter-ride option. Outfitters allow you to bring your own beverages or order directly from them but, please, no glass.

WHAT TO EXPECT You will receive a large “dry bag” for your personal duffle and the provided sleeping gear, which you only have access to at camp (not during the day). Your guides will show you how to most effectively close your bag.

Insider tip: The more rolls you get, the more waterproof your gear stays.

You can also expect a small dry bag that stays with you on the boat. Stash items you may want during the day like sunscreen, medications, rain suit and camera.

No swimming experience necessary. Everyone is assigned a life jacket and you must keep it comfortably snug at all times. The boat will not leave land until all jackets are buckled up.

Once on the boat, your crew will go through boat safety, explaining where it’s safe to ride during rapids, how to move around the boat, and what to do if you fall in (SMILE! Someone is probably taking a photo!).

Pulling into camp for the night, you will, if able, help with the “fire line,” where everyone lines up to help unpack the boat. You will meet the “groover,” named for the primitive toilet system that would leave grooves down the back of your thighs from sitting on the can. No need to fear, groovers these days are designed for comfort and come with real toilet seats, lids and plenty of privacy. You will also learn how to set up your cot, what to expect for dinner procedures, and how to wash your dishes in a four-pan system.

Relax and enjoy a hot meal prepared by your hard-working guides, while you sip a cold beer, hot tea or your beverage of choice. After dinner, unwind and soak in the glow of your first day on the river. Gaze in awe as the Milky Way stretches across the sky with unprecedented depth and size you’ve never witnessed before.

WHAT TO REMEMBER – Diligent hand washing prevents viral and bacterial contamination that could cause sickness. – Drink lots of water. All companies supply unlimited fresh drinking water. Staying hydrated prevents headaches, crankiness and bad judgment. – Always watch your step and protect your toes. Foot injuries are most common and can really put a damper on your trip. – It’s important to remember to put ALL liquid waste in the river, which means you must pee and bathe in the river. Tip for the ladies: Squat facing the group and go right next to the boat. You’ll have more coverage and something to hold on to. If your knees can’t handle the squat, bring a feminine urinary device (an inexpensive tool allowing women to go while standing). To purchase, search online or visit your local camping store. – Keep your towel handy at night to wipe off sandy feet before climbing into bed. – Keep everything sealed and secured. The wind blows loose items away and ravens, ringtail cats and ants can invade opportunistic openings.

Marvel at stunning geography not seen anywhere else on earth. Laugh along at bad jokes and tall tales from your guides. Witness majestic great-blue herons, impressive big-horn sheep, crafty ring-tail cats and so much more in their natural habitat. Hike to secret waterfalls and challenge your nerves in wild white water. All of this, and more, is waiting for you on the Colorado River!

Packing list: 1-2 pairs of socks in case of sunburn or a chilly night. 2-3 pairs of shoes: Rubber-soled water shoes like Keens, Tevas or Chacos for daytime on the boat, evening camp shoes to wear while your day shoes dry out, and lightweight hikers, if your trip includes some day hikes.  Pack items in a plastic grocery bag to protect your clothing. Long shorts or capris: exposed upper legs burn easily sitting on a boat. A couple of lightweight long-sleeved shirts offer great sun and wind protection and are excellent when you want to get wet and stay cool. Pants and a sweatshirt for evenings at camp. A two-piece rain suit is a MUST. Ending up cold and wet on the river is the absolute worst.

Grand Canyon Tour Companies:

Tour West Inc – twriver.com Western River Expeditions – westernriver.com Colorado River & Trail Expeditions – crateinc.com Hatch River Expeditions – hatchriverexpeditions.com Arizona Raft Adventures – azraft.com Wilderness River Adventures – riveradventures.com

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Package and Save this Summer with the Railway Getaway Package

All the staples to Make a Grand Trip the Grandest – train, lodging and meals – one easy way to book a vacation to the canyon. Make your summer grand!

Make a Grand Trip the Grandest This Summer!

Family fun to the Grand Canyon! Tickets start at just $35.98 per child.

Stay Next to the Train Station in 3-Diamond Comfort

Grand Canyon Railway Hotel – 3-Diamond comfort, indoor pool, charismatic bar, walking distance from downtown and Route 66.

Beat the Heat!

Williams is at nearly 7,000 feet elevation and usually 20 to 30 degrees cooler than the Arizona deserts.

Your Own Private Rail Car

Ride like a baron – take your group in a private rail car

See One of the Seven Wonders

Standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon is life-changing. The train is the grandest entrance to the Grand Canyon.

Make a Grand Trip the Grandest

The historic Grand Canyon Railway departs daily from Williams, Arizona to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Enhance your Grand Canyon experience with an entertaining train ride featuring western musicians and cowboy characters on vintage rail cars. You can plan a whole vacation – we offer many packages that include lodging at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and inside Grand Canyon National Park. Plan your adventure today!

All Aboard for Fun!

Since 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel has been taking passengers on a fabled journey to the heart of one of the seven wonders of the world. Grand Canyon Railway is more than just a mode of transportation: it’s a trip back in time on lovingly restored rail cars with entertaining musicians and the antics of cowboy characters. Out your window, the terrain changes from high desert to prairie, prairie to pine. It’s a view that’s ever-changing until you come across a view so brilliant, it could very well change you.

Package and Save 10% on the Railway Getaway Package

All the staples to Make a Grand Trip the Grandest – train, lodging and meals – one easy way to book a vacation to the canyon. Perfect for summer travel!

Departing Daily from Williams, AZ

The train departs daily at 9:30 a.m. Mountain Time (except during November/December when it leaves at 8:30 a.m.) and returns to Williams at 5:45 p.m. (except during November/December when it returns at 4:45 p.m.). Enjoy more than 3 hours at the canyon as the train drops you right in the Historic Village at the South Rim.

6 Ways to Ride

Explore each class of train service. Lovingly restored to their former glory, each class is distinctly unique.

Charter Your Own Private Car

The Railway offers private charters. Choose your car(s) – you get the whole space for your private party.

Entertaining

Enjoy a Wild West Shootout before the train departs. Then, keep your eyes open for bandits…. Enjoy the tunes of the West during the ride.

Stay Walking Distance from Downtown and Route 66

Riding the rails to the canyon is just one part of an unforgettable Grand Canyon experience. Whether you need lodging at both ends of our line or you’re driving an RV, Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel will take great care of you and even your pets! Our hotel and RV park are located adjacent to the historic Williams Depot and a couple blocks from downtown Williams and “The Mother Road” – Route 66. Plus, with a variety of Grand Canyon vacation deals to choose from, we’ll also save you money in the process.

The AAA 3-Diamond Grand Canyon Railway Hotel

The 298-room 3-diamond Grand Canyon Railway Hotel offers convenient lodging right next door to the train station. Enjoy an indoor pool and a location that’s walking distance to downtown and Route 66.

All Aboard on The Polar Express

Travel on a magical train ride to see Santa at the North Pole. The Polar Express departs this winter. Does the bell still ring for you?

Grand Canyon Railway RV Park

Adjacent to the train depot is our 124-site RV Park – walking distance to downtown and Route 66.

Historic Williams Depot

Built in 1908 the Williams Depot has sent off trains for more than a century and is an attraction unto itself. It’s now the ticket counter, a retail shop and coffee house.

Discover Offers & Packages

Find the perfect offer or package for your Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel adventure!

Departing Daily from Williams, Arizona

About 3 hours from Phoenix or Las Vegas, getting to Williams is easy.

Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip

Here’s a suggested way to see the Grand Canyon state, originating from the Phoenix area.

Williams, Arizona is located off Interstate 40. The famed Route 66 runs right through downtown.

LA to the Grand Canyon Road Trip

If you’re traveling from the West Coast, here is an itinerary to help with your planning.

Planning Resources

Make the most of your trip to the grandest of canyons. Here are resources to help.

Travel by RV

The Grand Canyon Railway RV Park is an ideal place to stay if you’re traveling in an RV.

Join Us #GrandCanyonRailway #XanterraTravel @GCRailway @XanterraTravel

Travelers Choice 2022 Award Winner!

Also 2021, 2020, 2019 & 2018.

All of Arizona is OPEN - And we want to take you there!

You deserve an unforgettable experience !

With our tours, you’ll get the VIP treatment , because our tours are 100% PRIVATE . You and your group will have our full attention as we cater to your every need. There’s no need to follow a set itinerary because with us, you’re free to explore wherever you’d like. We don’t offer canned, preplanned tours, but instead, you’ll be chartering one of our luxury vehicles for the day. YOU get to decide where to go !

We are not a tour company, but a Private Luxury Charter Company , equipped with the most exceptional guides in Arizona. Our skilled guides will not only take you to the best spots, but they will also provide expansive knowledge of Arizona for a complete experience. When it comes to restrictions, only two rules apply: stay inside Arizona’s borders and get back by 8 PM.

You are in charge of your adventure . Together with our guides, you can plan where to go, where to stop, and what to explore. We want to help you make your once-in-a-lifetime Arizona adventure unforgettable.

Yes, we’re three times the cost of a generic shuttle tour, but we are 100 times better . This is a unique opportunity to create memories for a lifetime. So, if you’re looking for an extra special experience at the Grand Canyon, we’re here to make that happen for you!

All of ARIZONA is OPEN and we want to take you there!

Adding additional stops.

What is the BIGGEST advantage of our service?  FREEDOM.!

Freedom to CREATE the perfect day by adding additional stops.  Unlike set itinerary tours; with us your free to adjust your day, add stops, or simply head straight to your destination.  If it’s possible, we’ll make it happen.

REMEMBER: If there are additional fees to enter, you would pay those upon your arrival.  They would not be included.  ALSO , if you have an event planned at a specific time (such as a helicopter tour), you might be restricted on time.

"Optional" Stops

Montezuma Castle/Well - 1000+ Year Old Ruins

Chapel of the Holy Cross - Sedona

Meteor Crater - (2+ Hours Needed)

Bearizona Arizona's Drive-Thru Wildlife Park

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

**Click on the photo/video to enlarge.

We’re somewhat new to Instagram, but we LOVE IT.  Sharing our photos is a lot of fun.

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Mobility Scooter - $100

Available when making your reservation as an add-on.

Many of our Guests have physical challenges, which can limit their ability to take advantage of everything the Grand Canyon has to offer.  This simply wasn’t acceptable, so we set to work on a solution!  The mobility scooter to the rescue!

We want ALL of our Guests to have a once-in-a-lifetime adventure .  Going on walks with the more mobily family members is an important part of the adventure.  No one should be left behind.

KEEP IN MIND:   The scooter has a max weight limit of 275 pounds.  It’s fantastic for PAVED trails at the Grand Canyon. The most popular trail, the Rim Trail, is perfect for the scooter.  HOWEVER; it will not work at Antelope Canyon , or Horseshoe Bend .

Meteor Crater is located 40 miles East of Flagstaff, Arizona and is the World’s best preserved impact crater.

How does adding Meteor Crater affect your Grand Canyon Tour?  

Meteor Crater is BY FAR the largest detour of all the stops.  It adds about 1.5 hours of driving and takes about 1 hour to explore.

If you’d like to see Meteor Crater, we suggest making it your ONLY stop.  This is still give you about 2 hours at the Grand Canyon.  Plenty of time to see the best-of-the-best overlooks.

Is 2 hours enough time to see everything we want to see at the Grand Canyon?

As far as the overlooks, absolutely. 

NOTE: If you’re planning on doing a hike/walk, you may not be able to see the most remote overlooks in the Park.  Most of our Guests are perfectly fine with this adjustment, since their hike/walk follows the rim of the Grand Canyon.

What you’ll see – Approx. 50,000 years ago a 150 foot iron/nickel meteor blasted a hole in the ground.  At over 2.5 miles wide and 550 feet deep, standing next to it you can’t help but marvel at its size.

Our “Deluxe Package”.

We’ve combined our award winning ground tour “Premium Package” with a private charter flight over the Grand Canyon on the way back to the Phoenix Area.  You won’t find it anywhere else.  We’ve created a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Ground Tour of the Grand Canyon
• Private charter flight over the Grand Canyon and a flight back to Phoenix.

TRIP HOME:   Once finished with your ground tour, your Guide will take you to the Grand Canyon airport, where you’ll board your PRIVATE CHARTER .  After liftoff, your pilot will spend 30 minutes flying over the Grand Canyon before turning South for Home. 

Your flight is about 1:45 minutes, including your 30 minute flight tour.  If you drove?  About 4 hours with stops.

Once arriving at the airport, your private transportation will be waiting to take you to your resort.

UPGRADE YOUR TOUR BELOW

• SEDAN – “Deluxe Package” Upgrade
• SUV – “Deluxe Package” Upgrade
• TRANSIT VAN – “Deluxe Package” Upgrade
• MERCEDES S600 MAYBACH – “Deluxe Package” Upgrade
• AIRSTREAM RV – “Deluxe Package” Upgrade
• MERCEDES SPRINTER – “Deluxe Package” Upgrade

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O ur Advantage  – We tailor your helicopter tour around your ground tour,  MAXIMIZING  your experience.

Our Approach  – Todd setout to perfectly blend the ground tour with the helicopter adventure, making BOTH BETTER.  

We’ve discovered that by seeing the remote overlooks FIRST (East end of the National Park), it elevates your helicopter flight to yet another level.  Now when your Pilot points out a landmark below, we’ve already seen it from the ground.

We actually modify your ground tour to heighten your helicopter tour experience.  Rather than go into the Park through the busy South entrance, we’ll swing around the East entrance.  Starting at the East entrance allows us to start with the remote overlooks, ending at the Grand Canyon airport.

The Other Guys  – The odds are someone in your mixed group isn’t doing the helicopter tour, tossing a wrench in everyone’s day.  You’ll be dropped off at the airport, while the rest go into the park.  Both groups end up waiting, wasting valuable time.

The National Park Service has announced that the Grand Canyon National Park has officially received its International Dark Sky Park certification. 

Our Approach  – We adjust our pick-up time, so you leave later.   

SUMMER : From the Phoenix area, Approx. 1PM pick-up (rather than 7AM), 12:30AM return.  Sedona area, 3PM (rather than 9AM), 11:30PM return.  

WINTER :  From the Phoenix area, Approx. 11AM pick-up (rather than 7AM), 10:30PM return.  Sedona area, 1PM (rather than 9AM), 11:30PM return.  

While there are several places to take in the dark, glowing sky, we focus on the more remote overlooks.  Typically, they’re less crowded.

While the entire Park is “Dark Sky” certified, we’ve found that the further away from the historic village, the better.  Many of the remote overlooks don’t have a light bulb within 20 miles.  However, it’s incredible the intense glow that can emanate from a cell phone… 

The remote overlooks offer seclusion, which is perfect for stargazing.

The Other Guys  – Simply, most tour companies don’t offer a tour after dark.  Also, the mixed group tours depend on “seat volume”.  Simply, filling seats.  While AMAZING, most visitors want to go during the day.

Of course your family/group isn’t restrained by these limitations.

Grand Canyon National Park

Travel guide.

• Things to Do
• Best Hotels
• Things to See
• Best Restaurants
• Organized Tours
• Driving Tours
• Tips on Accommodations
• Health & Safety
• Visitor Information
• Tips for Families
• Tips for Senior Travelers
• Getting There
• Tips for Travelers with Disabilities
• Staying Connected
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Regulations & Warnings
• Getting Around
• Active Pursuits
• Planning a Trek
• Suggested Itineraries
• Exploring the Area
• A Nature Guide

Tips for Travelers with Disabilities in Grand Canyon National Park

The steep, rocky trails below the rim pose problems for travelers with certain disabilities. People with limited vision or mobility may be able to walk the Bright Angel and North Kaibab trails , which are the canyon's smoothest. If you need to take a service animal on trails below the South Rim, check in at the Backcountry Information Office (tel. 928/638-7875 ), located across the train tracks near Maswik Lodge on the South Rim. On the North Rim, check in at the Backcountry Office, located 12 miles south of the North Entrance (just north of the campground entrance). For details about the accessibility of park buildings and facilities, pick up the free Accessibility Guide at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Kolb Studio, Tusayan Ruin and Museum, the Desert View Information Center, or any of the park entrance stations.

All shuttle buses in the park are equipped with ramps and space to carry passengers in wheelchairs that are up to 30 inches wide and 48 inches long. Visitors can also indicate to the driver that they would like the bus to "kneel" to reduce the size of the step up to the front door when entering or exiting.

On the rims, many attractions are accessible to everyone. On the South Rim, Desert View Drive is an excellent activity. Four of its overlooks -- Yaki, Grandview, Moran, and Desert View -- are wheelchair accessible. The Tusayan Ruin and Museum is also accessible (ask for assistance at the information desk). At Desert View , the bookstore and grocery store are accessible, but no designated seating is available at the snack bar. Along Desert View Drive, restrooms for the mobility impaired are at Yaki Point, Grandview Point, Tusayan Ruin and Museum, and Desert View (just east of Desert View General Store).

Hermit Road has been repaved, and although the drive is closed to most private cars when shuttles are running, travelers with disabilities can obtain accessibility permits for their vehicles at the park's entrance gates, Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Yavapai Geology Museum, Kolb Studio, Verkamp's, El Tovar's concierge desk, and the transportation desks at Bright Angel Lodge, Yavapai Lodge, and Maswik Lodge. On the drive itself, Hopi Point, Pima Point, Maricopa Point, and Powell Memorial are all wheelchair accessible. The road also affords a number of nice "windshield views" from pullouts where one need not leave the car to see the canyon. To reach the gift shop at Hermits Rest , you'll have to negotiate two 5-inch steps and a route that slopes gently sideways. Along Hermit Road there are wheelchair-accessible restrooms at Hopi Point and Hermits Rest. Despite having many historic buildings, most of Grand Canyon Village is wheelchair accessible. The notable exceptions are Kolb Studio and Lookout Studio. Hopi House is accessible only through a 29-inch-wide door on the building's canyon side. Also, some hallways in Yavapai Lodge are too narrow for wheelchairs. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Canyon Village Marketplace, Yavapai Geology Museum, El Tovar Hotel, Bright Angel Lodge, Mather Campground, and Maswik Lodge. Mather Campground has six sites for people with disabilities.

The Grand Canyon Visitor Center , on the South Rim, is tailored for people with disabilities. Walkways and doorways are wheelchair accessible. Mather Point can be reached from the visitor center via a paved walkway, and a new wheelchair-accessible ramp takes visitors out to a point offering fantastic canyon views.

Those who have difficulty walking can usually negotiate the 1.5-mile-long rim trail between Bright Angel Lodge and Yavapai Point (except when icy). An additional half-mile from Yavapai Point is a doable distance to Mather Point. Wide and smooth, the new greenway has moderate grades -- and stunning canyon views.

On the North Rim, most buildings are accessible. An accessible trail connecting Grand Canyon Lodge, its motel units, and the visitor center is under construction. The two most popular North Rim overlooks -- Point Imperial and Cape Royal -- are accessible, though neither has a designated parking space. Grand Canyon Lodge is accessible via a lift and a ramp, and the North Rim Campground has six accessible sites. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are at the Backcountry Office (assistance required), Grand Canyon Lodge (assistance may be required), the North Rim Campground, and behind the visitor center.

Xanterra (tel. 928/638-2822 ), with advance notice, can sometimes arrange for buses with lifts for its tours. The canyon's mule-trip operators accommodate people with certain disabilities, as do many river companies. Western River Expeditions (tel. 800/453-7450; www.westernriver.com), Arizona Raft Adventures (tel. 800/786-7238; www.azraft.com), Grand Canyon Expeditions (tel. 800/544-2691; www.gcex.com), and Canyon Explorations, Inc. (tel. 800/654-0723; www.canyonx.com) are particularly accommodating to people with certain disabilities.

The National Park Service supplies U.S. citizens with permanent disabilities a free federal Access Pass, which can only be obtained in person at a national park. Good for a lifetime, the pass admits a car with four adults, and gets holders a half-off discount on some facilities and services, such as camping.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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What is the best time to visit Grand Canyon National Park?

Mar 30, 2024 • 4 min read

All the elements come into play when selecting the best time to visit Grand Canyon National Park © IlexImage / Getty Images

There is never a bad time to explore the deep and rippled beauty of Grand Canyon National Park . But depending on the nature of your trip, be it a rugged multi-day hike through jagged switchbacks and river ravines; a spot of family camping; or a quick budget-friendly adventure, when you visit will make all the difference.

When planning the perfect Grand Canyon National Park itinerary, the factors to consider are as expansive as the rocky vistas that await your arrival.

From monsoons to relentless desert heat via peak visitor numbers, here’s everything you need to know about the best times to visit.

March to May is the best time to beat the summer heat

The Grand Canyon itself is approximately 277 miles long and more than a mile deep and the bulk of the national park falls within the Sonoran Desert. With this desert climate comes an incredible range of temperatures. During summer (June to August), highs can peak at 100-110°F (37.7-43.3°C). In December and January, the mercury rarely creeps above 60°F (15.5°C).

For more manageable temperatures, March through May is the best time to visit. This is when highs hover in the 75-90°F (23-32°C) and lows seldom dip below 50 (10°C) degrees. Keep an eye on weather forecasts, though. Late winter storms do occur and can blanket the canyon’s trails and roads in snow.

March also marks the beginning of rafting season on the Colorado River. Pre-book your river adventures well ahead of time. The canyon’s wildlife – including deer, mules, and bighorn sheep – also emerges from hibernation around this time, making for a visual spectacle.

Save this guide for everything you need to know before visiting Grand Canyon National Park.

From June to August head to the North Rim

The summer months are peak season throughout Grand Canyon National Park as families take advantage of the warmer weather and their kids’ summer breaks. While the masses are hard to avoid along the super-popular South Rim , summertime is the best time of year to experience the lesser-trafficked North Rim .

The North Rim portion of the park is open seasonally from mid-May through mid-October. Its roads are near impassable in the winter due to snow and ice. During the summer months, however, the North Rim is great for scenic drives and camping. It’s also the perfect time to hike the 10-mile-long Widforss Trail where forests of white fir and blue spruce provide some cooling shade.

Wherever your summer trip to Grand Canyon National Park takes you, keep an eye on the weather forecasts. July and August are considered the monsoon season and life-threatening floods can develop in a matter of minutes.

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September through October is the best time for avoiding crowds

Grand Canyon National Park has two shoulder seasons: spring (March to June) and fall (September to November). During September and October expect fewer people, cooler temperatures and cheaper lodging compared to the summer months.

However, it’s not uncommon for a fall thunderstorm to roll in during the afternoon. If safe to do so, embrace these storms as they thin out the crowds and can make for the snaps of a lifetime for photographers. If it’s a non-stormy day, a hike to Phantom Ranch , located deep within the canyon, is a prime day trip or overnight stay.

The best time for a budget-friendly adventure is November to February

Beyond the $35, year-long vehicle permit (plus your equipment and supplies), the Grand Canyon National Park is generally budget friendly. To save some extra bucks, book flights between November and February. This is when options to/from nearby major airports like Flagstaff , Phoenix , and Las Vegas tend to dip.

Additionally, you may find yourself saving big-time on local hotels – like the Shash Diné EcoRetreat and super-cozy El Tovar lodge – as many travelers opt to visit during the summer. Expect icy roads and some snow. 

If you can tolerate the cold – nighttime lows below 40°F (4.4°C) – you’ll be rewarded with both lower costs and fewer people. This can be a prime time for visiting some of the more popular viewpoints, like Hopi Point and Mather Point , without a selfie stick in sight.

This article was first published Jan 11, 2023 and updated Mar 30, 2024.

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FinanceBuzz

15 Best National Parks for Seniors To Visit in 2024

Posted: March 21, 2024 | Last updated: March 21, 2024

From Yosemite to the Everglades, many retirees have national park visits on their bucket list.

The National Park Service even offers a senior pass for anyone 62 or over. Seniors can purchase an annual pass for $20 or a lifetime pass for $80 to get unlimited access to any park. This is a great deal, no matter where you stand financially.

Of course, some parks are more accessible than others. So, if you want to step up your travel game , here are the 15 best national parks for seniors to visit this year.

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Badlands National Park (South Dakota)

Aging in Place — an organization that offers resources for older adults — has released a ranking of the most accessible national parks. Badlands National Park took the top spot.

The rugged and beautiful park has visitor centers, trails, and even campgrounds with ramps and that are accessible to all, including those in wheelchairs.

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Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)

Many of Grand Canyon National Park facilities were built before modern accessibility standards were established. However, all the park's shuttle buses are accessible to those in wheelchairs, and plenty of areas around the park can be comfortably explored.

Grand Canyon also offers a "Scenic Drive Accessibility Permit" that allows visitors with mobility issues to access areas not otherwise open to the public.

Yellowstone (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)

Yellowstone National Park — the country’s first national park — also made Aging in Place’s list of the most accessible parks.

Like the Grand Canyon, some of the park’s facilities are over a century old and may not meet today’s accessibility standards. However, the park is upgrading many of its facilities, programs, and services.

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Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)

Mesa Verde National Park is another gem in the West that offers a lot of accessible options to seniors.

While certain trails and activities — such as the park’s cliff dwelling tours — involve hiking through steep and tough terrain, the visitor center has plenty of information about which trails and areas are accessible.

Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)

Bryce Canyon National Park — a stunning park offering incredible views of massive rock formations — also earns high accessibility ratings from Aging in Place.

The park’s visitor centers and several of its viewpoints and trails are relatively easy to access. Bryce Canyon also has campgrounds that are reserved for visitors with mobility impairments.

Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

From the ancient thermal springs to stunning hikes and mountain views, Hot Springs National Park has plenty to offer.

The park’s Fordyce Visitor Center and Gulpha Gorge Campground are accessible to all. The park boasts several short, simple, and beautiful trails as well.

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Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)

While certain beach areas at Indiana Dunes National Park may be difficult to navigate, there are plenty of sites in the stunning park that are easy to navigate and great for older adult visitors.

Such sites include Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education, and Dunewood Campground.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)

Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park is another gem that earned top rankings on the Aging In Place list.

All the park’s visitor centers and many of its most beautiful sites, such as the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, the Everett Covered Bridge, and Brandywine Falls, are accessible.

Death Valley National Park (California, Nevada)

The weather can be quite unpredictable in Death Valley National Park's desert environment, but that's part of what makes it such a fascinating place to visit.

While the terrain varies quite a bit, there are several accessible trails and viewpoints throughout the park's 3.4 million acres.

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Joshua Tree National Park (California)

Joshua Tree National Park is another bucket-list destination for many nature lovers. It has several accessible visitor centers, nature trails, and campgrounds.

The true wonder of the Mojave and Colorado deserts can be seen in the park. However, as in Death Valley, older visitors should be aware that the ecosystem can lead to some difficult weather.

Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

It may take some careful planning to truly experience the wonder of the Teton Range, but Grand Teton National Park is another breathtaking place.

Here, seniors will find plenty of options if they seek more accessible trails and easy-to-access campgrounds, lodging, and visitor centers.

Yosemite National Park (California)

Nearly four million visitors pass through Yosemite National Park every year to marvel at stunning waterfalls, beautiful meadows, deep valleys, and more.

Among nearly 1,200 square miles of wilderness, there are plenty of accessible areas — and more on the way as the park goes through regular upgrades.

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve (Colorado)

Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve has the tallest dunes in North America and an incredible mix of wetlands, forests, lakes, and more.

Due to loose sand, those with limited mobility may have issues navigating the dune field. However, the park does have balloon tire wheelchairs that guests can reserve.

Gateway Arch National Park (Missouri)

Gateway Arch National Park offers many ways to enjoy the stunning monument in St. Louis.

Visitors with limited mobility may have trouble accessing the tram ride to the top of the arch. Still, there are plenty of paved paths and riverboat cruises along the Mississippi River that all can enjoy.

Everglades National Park (Florida)

Everglades National Park — home to the largest subtropical wilderness in the country and a habitat for many rare species, such as manatees and crocodiles — offers visitors plenty to see and do.

Many of its trails and visitor centers are accessible — as are several frontcountry campsites and the Pearl Bay Chickee backcountry campsite.

Bottom line

A National Park Service Senior Pass offers access to hundreds of recreation sites, including those operated by other agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Forest Service.

If you frequent the parks, a senior pass is a great way to avoid wasting money  in retirement. 

Many of these sites regularly update their facilities to be more accessible, making a park visit a great vacation option for retirees and older adults. 

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Exiting nps.gov

Entrance passes.

Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. You may also need a vehicle reservation at a few high-traffic sites.

Frequent visitors, seniors , military, and others may save money on entrance fees with an America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, also known an America the Beautiful or interagency pass. Review all pass options below and decide which pass is best for you.

Entrance Pass Comparison

National parks that charge an entrance fee require visitors to purchase or obtain a standard pass, park-specific annual pass, or America the Beautiful pass. Visitors only need one of these.

Standard Pass

• For one national park
• Valid for 7 days
• Directly funds the park

Recommended for

One trip to one park

Entrance fees and passes by park

Annual Pass

• For one national park or park group
• Valid for 1 year
• Not available for every park
• Multiple trips to one park
• One or more trips to one park group

America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass

• Covers entrance fees and standard amenity fees (day-use fees) at Federal recreational sites, including national parks
• 1 year and lifetime options
• Seniors , military, visitors with permanent disabilities
• One or more trips to multiple parks

More about America the Beautiful Passes

Vehicle Reservations

Some highly-visited national parks use a seasonal or year-round timed entry system to manage private vehicle traffic. Reservations are typically made available through recreation.gov on a rolling basis. If you plan to drive into one of these parks while the timed entry system is in effect, we recommend making a reservation well in advance.

Parks with vehicle reservations

Covers entrance fees and standard amenity (day-use) fees at lands managed by

• National Park Service
• US Fish & Wildlife Service
• US Forest Service
• Bureau of Land Management
• Bureau of Reclamation
• US Army of Corps of Engineers

Depending on the type of entrance fee charged at a site, covers One private vehicle fee or Four per person fees

America the Beautiful Passes are non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be replaced if lost or stolen . Passholders must show valid photo identification (ID) with each pass.

How to Get an America the Beautiful Pass

In person (recommended).

Passes can be purchased or picked up at over 1,000 federal recreation sites.

Purchase and pickup locations

Order Online, Receive by Mail

To receive your pass by mail, order online at the USGS Online Store or by phone: 1-888-275-8747 , extension 1. Hours of operation are 8 am to 4 pm Mountain Time.

Visiting soon? Pick up a pass when you arrive.

America the Beautiful Passes ordered online through the USGS Online Store may take up to three weeks to be processed and delivered. Get your pass at one of over 1,000 purchase and pickup locations to avoid the wait.

Senior Passes

US citizens and permanent residents ages 62 and older can purchase an annual America the Beautiful—the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass for $20.00, or a lifetime version for $80.00. Applicants must provide documentation of age and residency or citizenship.

• The Senior Pass may provide a 50 percent discount on some amenity fees charged for facilities and services such as camping, swimming, boat launch, and specialized interpretive services.
• The Senior Pass generally does NOT cover or reduce special recreation permit fees or fees charged by concessioners.
• Passes may not be purchased as gifts since eligible recipient must show proof of eligibility.

Annual Senior Pass

Lifetime senior pass, golden age passports and golden access passports.

Golden Age Passports and Golden Access Passports are no longer sold. However, these passes are still honored according to the provisions of the pass.

We encourage you to exchange your Golden Age/Golden Access Passport for a current Lifetime Senior Pass for free. You can exchange in-person at sites that issue passes. Please bring your old pass and photo identification with you.

Annual Passes and Park Groups

While most annual park passes are limited to one national park, a few sites offer an annual pass valid at multiple national parks, federal recreational lands, or state parks.

Free Entrance Days

Come experience the national parks! On six days in 2024, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. Mark your calendar for these entrance fee–free dates in 2024:

• January 15: Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
• April 20: First day of National Park Week
• June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
• August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
• September 28: National Public Lands Day
• November 11: Veterans Day

Your Fee Dollars at Work

All the money from entrance fees remains in the National Park Service, and at least 80 percent stays in the park where it was collected. Learn more about how entrance fees are used to improve the visitor experience .

Last updated: March 25, 2024