11 Best Things to Do in Grand Canyon National Park

Fascinated by the 7 natural wonders of the world? Here we tick off one of them- the mysterious and engaging Grand Canyon National Park.

Still undiscovered on how old it is, Grand Canyon is a mesmerising natural wonder. Located in Arizona’s northwestern quadrant, it boasts the massive expanse of gorges, magnificent rock formation and beautiful stretch of ridges. And it doesn’t surprise us that it is an iconic globally recognised destination.

Since 1979, this park has been the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just by admiring the views, you can spend hours here. Needless to say, this tourist place holds many marvels and activities for you and is one of the main reasons people apply for a US visa.

Here is a guide of the top things to do in Grand Canyon National Park to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Begin with Grand Canyon Visitor Centre

Kick start your visit by being at the centre of information for the newbies. Here you can unfurl what interesting journey you are stepping into. With both outdoor and indoor exhibits that include videos and films featuring different areas of the Grand Canyon. It is sort of warm-up for what’s coming next! The Visitor Center is located on the South Rim by Mather Point.

Have water splash with River Rafting

Consider viewing the Grand Canyon from a unique perspective. One of the adventurous white water experience is rafting down the Colorado River. It is enthralling and offers a new side to the trip. If you do not want to jump into this action-action-packed performance, you can try something less audacious yet entertaining, like a half-day or full-day trips in the northeastern area of the canyon on calm waters. At the western side, in between Diamond Creek and Lake Mead where the river is rough you can have a great expedition.

Drop at major Viewpoints

Grand Canyon is a photographer’s heaven. There are endless options from where you can capture your best photographs. Watch the glorious sunset or the magic of nature or the unbelievable backdrop, here are the best spots to explore these-

• Bright Angel Point
• Hopi Point
• Grand Canyon South Rim
• Lipan Point
• Grandview Point
• Yavapai Observation Station

Join the Mule Trips

A trip that is both imperial and intrepid is the mule trip. Available on both North and South Rims, these trips are one of the most exciting ways to discover this sheer beauty. The South Rim trips are more popular among the tourists and thus remain packed all year round, while North Rim mule trips are only available from mid-May to October.

Be stunned at the Havasu Falls

One of the gorgeous waterfalls in the Grand Canyon is the Havasu Falls. It is a detailed contrast of arid desert and lush greenery, making it an attractive tropical paradise. It offers an amazing view of enchanting aqua-blue water falling on the orange, travertine cliffs, turning it to be a stunning oasis. But to reach this eye-catching green-blue waterfall, you have to hike for 10 miles. Nevertheless, there are throngs of tourists who are willingly participating in this audacious task of hiking pre and post-visit. Horseback and helicopter are other options to reach here.

Also Check: Beautiful Waterfalls in the USA

Watch the unique Horseshoe Bend

An exotic viewpoint set majestically in the Colorado River provides visitors with a picturesque landscape, never seen before. It is an iconic destination tucked 5 miles away from the beginning of Gran Canyon Park in Glen Canyon, which is growing in popularity annually. At Horseshoe Bend, when you stand on the edge of the Canyon, the incredible scene of the river will mesmerise you. Add the experience with the New Antelope Canyon and Glen Canyon in a one-day itinerary.

Visit the Black Suspension Bridge

Emerging from the tunnel and located just upstream of the Boat Beach at Phantom Ranch, the Black Suspension Bridge is a treat to walk through. It connects the North Rim with the South Rim via the Kaibab Trail. Established in 1928, it is among the few bridges to cross the Colorado River and the first safe passageway between north and south Kaibab. It is famous among the mule riders and rim-to-rim hikers. Also, the view from 65m above the river is breathtaking.

Drive through the Desert View

One of the champion roads in terms of astounding scenes is the Desert View Drive. Another name for Arizona Highway 64, this road runs from Grand Canyon Village, east along the canyon rim for 25 miles (40 km) to the Desert View Services Area. Throughout the way you can stop at vantage points like Pipe Creek Vista, Yaki Point, Duck on a Rock, Grandview Point, Desert View and a lot more which gives panoramic views. There are four picnic areas to stretch your back and relax. Get a touch of history at Tusayan Museum and ruin site.

Participate in the electrifying Aerial trip

Want to try something over the top of the world? The epic aerial tour in the Grand Canyon provides a spellbinding bird-eye view. Without any hassle, you discover the expansive panoramas of this place. Starting high above the rims giving an overlook of hundreds of miles, and gradually taking you below the canyon rim- this trip is everything you could ask for. Cherish the views by enjoying an air tour over Lake Mead, the northern side of Grand Canyon, and Marble Canyon. Keep your eyes locked to the view as you see a close encounter of the old rock formations from over million years.

Delve in Camping

With a combination of fun, thrill and romance, set your camping site while you trip in the Grand Canyon. It is refreshing and rejuvenating as you soak in the laid-back vibe of nature. Spend your day joyfully in peace with friends and family. There are great campgrounds in the both North and South Rims, as North Rim Campground, Jacob Lake Campground, Trailer Village, and Desert View Campground.

Also Check: Best Hikes in the USA

Indulge in Star Gazing

One of the most underrated activities yet delightful of all is to gaze the wonderful stars in the sky. It is a dream come true to spend a night with your partner underneath the star-studded sky.