A One-Day Guide to Enjoying the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is Arizona's most distinguished landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Arizona has some of the world's most stunning destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. The Grand Canyon is among such masterpieces that offer plenty to see and do. The Grand Canyon is Arizona's most distinguished landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is one mile deep, 277 miles long, and 18 miles wide. The Grand Canyon is among the world's seven wonders, with awe-inspiring views, museums, historical sites, flora, and wild animals.
One can experience the beauty of this fantastic location at four rims: The Grand Canyon East, The Grand Canyon West, the North Rim, and the South Rim. Each rim is different from the others and has its charm. Millions of people worldwide visit the Grand Canyon annually, making it the most visited National Park in the U.S.A.
The best rim to visit
If one plans a trip to the Grand Canyon, experiencing all it offers will take weeks. But if one has just one day to experience the beauty of The Grand Canyon, one may wonder what to see. So to experience the best of the Grand Canyon in a day, visit the South Rim.
The South Rim is located within the heart of the Grand Canyon and is often called the 'true Grand Canyon.' The South Rim is accessible to visitors year-round and is the least remote of the four rims. It offers over 20 viewpoints, a museum, popular trails, and an ancient Indian watchtower. South Rim is located at a 5-hour drive from Phoenix and Las Vegas. Here is all one can see and do in a day at Grand Canyon:
Watch the sunrise at Mather Point
Start the day by enjoying a spectacular sunrise at Mather Point. Hopi Point, Maricopa Point, and Point Imperial are other spots to enjoy the sunrise.
Explore the Grand Canyon visitor center
The visitor center offers all the information about the activities, attractions, ranger programs, and free shuttle buses. One can also purchase some souvenirs for loved ones at the center.
Visit the famous viewpoints
Board the Hermit Road shuttle bus to enjoy some breathtaking scenery. One can explore the best viewpoints, including Trail View Point, Hopi Point, Powell Point, and Mohave Point.
Go hiking
Hiking is among the best ways to enjoy the Grand Canyon. The South Rim Trail, the Bright Angel Trail, and the South Kaibab Trail are worthy of a day's trip. Walk the Trail of Time to understand the age, history, and significance of the Grand Canyon.
The Hopi House
Include the Hopi House in the one-day itinerary. It is a National Historic Landmark, where one can find native art and crafts, hand-woven rugs, and Native American jewelry and pottery.
Visit the National Geographic Visitor Center
The Grand Canyon National Geographic Visitor Center is situated in the town of Tusayan, 1 mile outside of the South Rim Park entrance. Remember to watch the 34-minute world-famous Grand Canyon IMAX movie there.
Enjoy the Desert View Drive
The best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon is by hiring a car service. The scenic Desert View Drive starts at Grand Canyon Village and concludes at Desert View Watchtower. One can enjoy gorgeous viewpoints on this 25-mile drive.
Enjoy the majestic sunset
See the different hues adorning the Grand Canyon by watching the mesmerizing sunset from Lipan, Desert View, Pima Point, or Yavapai.
Gaze at the stars
The Grand Canyon is the perfect place for stargazing. After dinner, if one has time, remember to gaze at the stars.
Get up as early as possible to make the most of the day. And if one wants to enjoy the beautiful views and see more than an average visitor, consider hiring a car service. It will allow one to enjoy the Grand Canyon at one's convenience, stop at the designated areas and enjoy the views of the Colorado River for as long as needed.
Western Express Shuttle Service and Tours provides private transportation between Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and Sedona and private tours within the state of Arizona.
