The Skywalk Bridge at the Grand Canyon West seen on a bright sunny day

Grand Canyon West Rim & National Park Guides

Many first-time visitors to the Grand Canyon don't know that there are actually multiple regions within the park: the South Rim (known officially as the Grand Canyon National Park), the West Rim, and the North Rim – each offering vastly different but equally stunning sightseeing experiences.

The South Rim is the most developed and tourist-friendly rim, offering helicopter tours, Hummer tours, hiking, camping, and plentiful shopping, dining, and lodging. Conversely, the West Rim offers a more rugged experience closer to nature. The West Rim is also the home of the world-famous Skywalk and the only area where helicopter tours can land on the canyon floor.

If you’re planning to visit the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, use our helpful guides to determine which area to travel to, how to get there, and the best activities available at each region.

Grand Canyon Activities

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How to Plan a Proposal at the Grand Canyon

Find ideas and strategies for planning the perfect proposal at the Grand Canyon, including a romantic once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tour for just the two of you.

Bright red and orange stone walls within the Grand Canyon National Park against a blue sky
Best Things to Do at Each Grand Canyon Region

There's more to the Grand Canyon than just looking out over the edge! No matter which region you'll be visiting, you can use this list to find things to do at the Grand Canyon.

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Top 10 Best Ways to Experience the Grand Canyon

Here are our top 10 recommendations for the best Grand Canyon adventures and tours, as well as the most exciting ways to reach the Grand Canyon!

A family stands at the edge of the Grand Canyon South Rim facing a stunning landscape
Grand Canyon Activities for Families

Give your kids the once-in-a-lifetime experience and visit the Grand Canyon! You can reach the Grand Canyon on a helicopter or airplane tour from Las Vegas. You'll find plenty of activities to keep your kids entertained and beautiful sights to explore.

Two people stand at the edge of the Grand Canyon in front of a sprawling stone landscape
Planning a Romantic Getaway: Couple’s Activities in the Grand Canyon

Planning to visit the Grand Canyon with your special someone? Check out these ideas to make a couple's trip to the Grand Canyon even more special.

The Las Vegas Strip seen at night illuminated by neon lights with the MGM in the foreground
Luxury Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

Do you have a taste for the luxurious? Venture away from the Las Vegas Strip and experience the Grand Canyon on a helicopter tour! A luxury helicopter ride with Papillon offers incredible aerial views of the Grand Canyon West and takes just a few hours from start to finish. Learn more about this once-in-a-lifetime adventure available every day in Las Vegas.

Visitors to the Grand Canyon stand at a viewpoint during sunset
The Best Grand Canyon Sunset Tours

Of all the bucket list items you can dream up, it’s pretty hard to beat a Grand Canyon sunset tour in a helicopter or airplane.

A man wearing hiking gear stands at the edge of a Grand Canyon lookout point
Grand Canyon National Park Hiking Guide

Whether you're an experienced hiker or just want to enjoy a peaceful walk amongst the stunning canyon scenery, you'll find the perfect trail with this helpful guide to top Grand Canyon hikes.

Grand Canyon Information

The setting sun over the Grand Canyon creating bright orange stone walls beneath a crystal blue sky
Which State Is the Grand Canyon In?

Learn more about the Grand Canyon's location in the American Southwest and your proximity for planning a visit, whether you are located in Las Vegas, Arizona, or other nearby states like Utah.

A side-to-side image comparison of the Grand Canyon West and the Grand Canyon National Park
A Grand Canyon Rim Comparison

Use this guide to help you decide whether the South Rim or the West Rim will make the perfect Grand Canyon day trip from Las Vegas.

a Grand Canyon South Rim viewpoint filled with orange and red striped rock formations
The Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon: Season-by-Season Breakdown

When is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon? Learn more about the temperatures, Grand Canyon weather, and most popular times to visit the Grand Canyon National Park and the West Rim.

A sweeping Grand Canyon South Rim vista featuring bright orange rock walls and a bright blue sky
Fun Facts About the Grand Canyon

Covering more than 1.2 million acres of land, and visited by more than 5 million people a year, the Grand Canyon is one of the world's most famous and breathtaking natural wonders.

Bright orange striped Grand Canyon walls illuminated by the setting desert sun
How Wide is the Grand Canyon?

A visit to the Grand Canyon gives visitors an opportunity to see billions of years of geological history. There is no other place like it in the United States!

A wide landscape of the rippling striped walls within the Grand Canyon National Park
Understanding Grand Canyon Fees and Entry Details from Las Vegas

Planning to visit the Grand Canyon National Park during your Las Vegas vacation? Find information about park entry fees, when the park is open, and tips and tricks to get the most out of your trip to the magnificent South Rim.

A cloudy sky casts shade on the rippling walls of the Grand Canyon South Rim
What Animals Live at the Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon may be surrounded by desert, but don't let that fool you - it's home to a huge variety of wild animal species. From mammals to reptiles, amphibians, and birds, Grand Canyon animals thrive in this unique landscape. This list notates the animal life that thrive in one of the most beautiful landmarks in North America: the Grand Canyon. What will you see when you visit?

Guests at the Grand Canyon stand along a towering rock formation
Visiting the Grand Canyon: Safe and Socially-Distant Ways to Experience It All

Learn how to enjoy your visit to the Grand Canyon during the pandemic and socially distant activities like helicopter tours, Hummer ground excursions, and hikes.

A long stone peninsula juts into the center of a Grand Canyon gorge
Grand Canyon Vacation and Tour Guides

Discover insider tips and unforgettable experiences with our go-to guides for exploring one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. From the best hiking trails and scenic viewpoints to thrilling helicopter tours, find expert advice to plan the ultimate Grand Canyon getaway. Browse top recommendations for exciting adventures, family-friendly activities, and must-see attractions to make your visit truly unforgettable.

Grand Canyon National Park

A section of historic Route 66 seen in a closeup
Visit the Grand Canyon on a Route 66 Road Trip

Planning a Route 66 road trip to celebrate its 100th Anniversary? The Grand Canyon is the perfect detour! Learn more about its location, driving directions and entry details, and plan exciting activities like a helicopter tour, airplane tour, or Hummer tour!

The sun setting over the Grand Canyon National Park, creating pink and purple stripes on the stone walls
Grand Canyon National Park Guide

Did you know the Grand Canyon National Park is just a short distance from Las Vegas? You can experience this incredible feat of nature during your Las Vegas vacation. Let Papillon help you plan a visit to the most distinctive landmark in the United States.

Visitors to the Grand Canyon stand at the edge of a scenic lookout point
A Guide to Visiting Grand Canyon South Rim

Visiting the Grand Canyon National Park is the trip of a lifetime. You can just about do it all at the Grand Canyon South Rim; hiking, camping, helicopter and airplane tours, mule rides, and Hummer tours as well as plentiful shopping, dining, and historic hotels and museums to explore. This guide will help you prepare for your trip to the South Rim, whether you're planning a Grand Canyon vacation over the course of several days or simply visiting on a day trip from Las Vegas.

Lake Powell seen reflecting the setting sun between winding rock formations
Grand Canyon National Park Day Tours

Visiting the Grand Canyon National Park? Take your sightseeing adventure to the next level with a day trip to the nearby town of Page, Arizona - home of some of the world's most famous and beautiful natural destinations.

a Grand Canyon landscape featuring a colossal sandstone wall illuminated by the desert sunset
The Solo Traveler’s Guide to the Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon National Park is a fantastic place for solo travelers to explore, with plenty of activities to occupy your time and even more unforgettable sights to capture. Learn how to make the most of your solo trip to the Grand Canyon and find tips to plan your next adventure.

An airplane tour from Las Vegas flies over the Grand Canyon landscape
Best Flights to Grand Canyon

There are several ways to get to and from the Grand Canyon. You can drive, but road trips can take hours out of your valuable exploration time. Grand Canyon flights are the perfect option. They're fast, easy, inexpensive, and offer tons of freedom.

A sightseeing airplane ready to take flight from the Boulder City Air Terminal
Flights To The Grand Canyon

Are you looking to fly to the Grand Canyon?

An aerial view of the Grand Canyon North Rim
Guide To Visiting Grand Canyon North Rim

Only 10% of Grand Canyon visitors make it to the raw beauty of the Grand Canyon North Rim. Make it up to the cool ponderosa forests at 8,000 ft and see the most stunning and remote viewpoints in the entire National Park with this handy guide.

The brightly colored Grand Canyon North Rim seen from above
The Grand Canyon North Rim Lookout Tower

The Grand Canyon North Rim is the rugged untouched alternative to the tourist-friendly South Rim. The North Rim area of the Grand Canyon National Park offers the best experience for those who want to be closer to nature. Here you’ll find spectacular views of the canyon and Colorado River and a variety of day hiking options. Most notable is the North Rim Lookout Tower, listed on the National Historic Lookout Register, which can be reached on an easy hiking trail.

The exterior of the IMAX theater located in Tusayan, Arizona near the Grand Canyon
IMAX - A Grand Canyon Experience You Don't Want to Miss!

Of all the fantastic activities available at the Grand Canyon National Park, the best way to start your day of exploring is at the National Geographic Visitor Center. Only here can guests virtually soar and dive through the canyon walls - with a breathtaking IMAX film! Learn more about this movie that can't be missed.

The Grand Canyon train makes its way along the railroad track
Guide to The Grand Canyon Railway Train

If you are looking for a historical adventure, a Grand Canyon Train ride is an authentic wild west experience! It is one of the most authentic and enjoyable experiences available when you visit the Grand Canyon.

The Colorado River seen at eye level between the walls of the Grand Canyon
Guide to Grand Canyon Rafting Trips

On your visit to one of the seven natural wonders of the world, be sure to book a Grand Canyon rafting tour on the Colorado River, America's second longest river. We cover your options for rafting adventures in this guide.

Grand Canyon West

The Skywalk and connecting building structure seen
Guide to Visiting Grand Canyon West

Grand Canyon West is the closest part of the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas. And it offers adventure and activities that you will not find in any other part of the canyon. We cover those, and more, in this guide.

The Skywalk at Grand Canyon West seen from the side, displaying the bridge jutting over the canyon's edge
Experience the Grand Canyon Skywalk

The West Rim offers several exciting Grand Canyon activities that are not available in other areas of the park. The highest demand attraction located at the West Rim is the Skywalk. Luckily, you can travel from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon Skywalk in a day's time aboard a thrilling helicopter tour to the West Rim!

Visitors at the Grand Canyon West sit near the Skywalk, located across from the Eagle Point rock formation
The Solo Traveler’s Guide to the Grand Canyon West

Visiting Las Vegas alone? If you have a spare day in your Las Vegas vacation, you can visit the Grand Canyon West and spend an entire day exploring the scenery! Learn more about how to reach the Grand Canyon and the must-see sights and activities awaiting you.

Visitors to Grand Canyon West walk along Guano Point as the sun sets
Grand Canyon West Rim Viewpoints

The West Rim features some of the most unique rock formations found throughout the Grand Canyon. Learn about the exciting sightseeing opportunities awaiting you when you arrive at the Grand Canyon West.

The Skywalk Bridge, seen located across the canyon gorge from Eagle Point
Visit the Grand Canyon West with the New All Access Pass

If you’re planning to visit the Grand Canyon West Rim on a tour from Las Vegas, you can choose a package that includes the All Access pass. If you’re going to drive to the West Rim on your own, you can purchase the pass upon arrival. Either way, the All Access pass gives visitors an all-encompassing sightseeing experience with nonstop excitement from start to finish!

Grand Canyon Trip Planning

A stone welcome sign located at the entrance of the Grand Canyon National Park
8 Ways to Avoid Crowds at the Grand Canyon

Learn some top tips to dodge the foot traffic at the Grand Canyon National Park, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. There are plenty of secluded spots, private tours, and unique regions to make your visit feel extra special!

An aerial view of the Colorado River cutting between bright orange Grand Canyon walls
A Guide to Grand Canyon Vacations

Planning a Grand Canyon vacation? Whether you're visiting the Grand Canyon National Park or planning a day trip from Las Vegas, a Grand Canyon vacation package can ensure that all of your activities are planned in advance! Learn more about unique and exciting ways to experience this national landmark.

The Grand Canyon South Rim expanse seen below a blue sky and clouds
Make the Most Out of One Day at the Grand Canyon

If you have just one day available to spend at the Grand Canyon, should you go to the South Rim or the West Rim? What Grand Canyon activities will you have time to experience? Use this guide to choose the best trip for your time and budget.

A sightseeing helicopter tour flies over the Grand Canyon South Rim
Different Ways To Visit the Grand Canyon

Did you know you can travel to the Grand Canyon by car, helicopter, airplane, or even by train? We've assembled this Grand Canyon guide for both first-time visitors and returning adventurers alike to make the most of your time at America's most majestic National Park.

Guests at Grand Canyon West stand atop the Skywalk over the canyon floor
How to Plan Your International Grand Canyon Excursion

If you're visiting Las Vegas for the first time as an international traveler, you may not be aware that you can visit the Grand Canyon West or Grand Canyon National Park on a day tour from Las Vegas. This guide will help you plan the perfect Grand Canyon tour while you're visiting the United States.

A large stone sign designating the entrance to the Grand Canyon National Park
Planning a Trip to the Grand Canyon for International Travelers

If you're planning to visit the United States, the Grand Canyon is one of the most exciting landmarks to see! This guide can help you plan what to bring, where to stay, and all of the best activities to make your trip to the Grand Canyon truly memorable.

The Colorado River seen from above winding through the colossal walls of the Grand Canyon
Visiting the Grand Canyon on a Tight Schedule

Even if you have just a few hours available during your Las Vegas vacation, you can visit the Grand Canyon! Learn more about how to get there the fastest and how to maximize your time at the South Rim or the West Rim.

Airplanes parked on the Grand Canyon Airport tarmac surrounded by winter snow
Closest Airport To Grand Canyon

If you are planning a trip to the Grand Canyon did you know you can fly directly to this natural wonder? Or to a number of popular and inexpensive commercial airports in Nevada and Arizona that provide quick access to the Grand Canyon region?

Two children explore a Grand Canyon lookout point while their family follows behind them
Grand Canyon Activities for Kids

Planning a Grand Canyon family vacation? You don't have to be worried about the kids being bored! Whether you're visiting for several days or on a day trip from Las Vegas, you can fill your time with plenty of activities and educational opportunities to keep your little ones entertained the entire time!

Visitors to the Grand Canyon National Park stand at the edge of a stunning viewpoint
The Best 3-Day Itinerary at the Grand Canyon National Park

Find the best way to fill three days at the Grand Canyon National Park with this helpful itinerary featuring dining options, free activities, Grand Canyon tours, and more.

Beyond the Grand Canyon

A famous desert street leads to Monument Valley in the distance
National Parks Tours from Las Vegas: 3 Day Itineraries You’ll Love

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters offers the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to tour destinations like Zion, Grand Canyon National Park, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, Monument Valley, and more on all-inclusive, 3-day overnight national parks tours. Explore the most incredible national parks in the United States and spend your nights among the brightest night skies. Learn more!

Exterior of Bar 10 Ranch and the surrounding property, featuring several covered wagons
Grand Canyon North: An American Cowboy Adventure Tour for the Whole Family

Historic Bar 10 Ranch offers exciting Western adventures like ATV tours to the Grand Canyon, outdoor games on the ranch property, and delicious homemade barbecue by the hospitable staff. You can experience all of this on a day tour from Las Vegas!

A crystal blue waterfall cascades between canyon walls at Havasu Falls
Guide To Visiting Havasu Falls

Havasupai Falls, with its turquoise and blue/green waterfalls, is the most well-known oasis in all of the Grand Canyon. With this guide, plan your adventures to visit this wild treasure.

Lake Powell winding through stunning orange canyons at sunset
Grand Canyon National Park Day Tours

Visiting the Grand Canyon National Park? Take your sightseeing adventure to the next level with a day trip to the nearby town of Page, Arizona - home of some of the world's most famous and beautiful natural destinations.

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