Things to do in  Grand Canyon National Park

At Grand Canyon National Park, you get a view of the 1,902-mile (3,061-kilometer) canyon itself, plus get insight into millions of years of Earth history, see ancient petroglyphs, experience classic national park architecture at places like the El Tovar Hotel, spot high desert wildlife, and more.

The month to visit Grand Canyon National Park is April, although May is good, too. As national parks get more popular, big-ticket parks like Grand Canyon get more crowded, especially in summer. Shoulder seasons are your best bet for having good weather without the crowds. Once June hits, visitation swells.

You’ll want at least two days at Grand Canyon National Park, but three is better. With an overnight stay, you’ll experience the park in all its hues, from evening’s twilight to morning’s warm glow. You’ll also be able to tackle a couple of hikes—the Bright Angel Trail is popular.

If you want the views you’ve seen in magazines and on Instagram, head to the South Rim’s designated lookouts including Mather, Hopi, and Shoshone points. If you’ve got the hiking bug, check out Plateau Point on Bright Angel Trail—after some 100 switchbacks, you’ll see unbeatable views of the Colorado River.

Here are five ways to enjoy the Grand Canyon. Hike on popular trails (South Rim or Bright Angel trails). Snap pictures on the rim. Cruise down Desert View Drive. Eat at the El Tovar Dining Room. And walk on the glass Grand Canyon Skywalk, hanging over the East Rim.

Grand Canyon National Park is known for having one of the largest canyons in the world, clocking in at 1,902 square miles (3,061 square kilometers). It’s also home to plenty of hikes, tangible Indigenous history, and El Tovar Hotel, one of the National Park Service’s most historic lodges.