The Grand Canyon’s South Rim is the most popular area of the park and is open year-round, making it a great option for visitors to see the canyon. There are several ways to experience the South Rim, including driving, taking a shuttle, or hiking.
- Driving: One option is to drive to the South Rim and take a leisurely drive along the scenic Desert View Drive, which offers several overlooks and pullouts where you can get out and take in the views. This is also the best option for visiting some of the more remote and less-visited parts of the South Rim.
- Shuttle: Another option is to take the park’s shuttle bus service, which runs along the South Rim and makes stops at several key viewpoints and popular hiking trails. This is a great option for those who want to avoid the hassle of driving and parking in the busy park.
- Hiking: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also hike down into the canyon. There are several trails that lead to the bottom, including the Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab Trail. However, these hikes are strenuous and should only be attempted by experienced hikers in good physical condition.
- Guided tours: If you want to get more in-depth and guided experience, there are several guided tours of the Grand Canyon South Rim that take you on a bus or helicopter tour of the park and give you the opportunity to learn more about the history and geology of the area from a knowledgeable guide.
Regardless of how you choose to experience the South Rim, be sure to bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen as the area can be quite hot during the summer months. Also, always check the weather forecast for the season of your visit, as the weather can change rapidly in the area.