Grand Canyon

Enter your dates to find available activities

Top pick


Grand Canyon: Tours & Tickets

See all tours & things to do in Grand Canyon

5 geological facts about how the Grand Canyon was formed

Whether you see it from above by helicopter, below by boat, or choose to tour its hiking trails by foot, Arizona's Grand Canyon is one of North America's most breathtaking sights. Here's a step-by-step guide on how it came to be!

  • The rise of the Kaibab plateau

    1. The rise of the Kaibab plateau

    When the Kaibab plateau was forced upwards 35 million years ago, the ancestor of what is now the Colorado River was diverted away from its previous route towards the Pacific Ocean.

  • The formation of Lake Bidahochi

    2. The formation of Lake Bidahochi

    The river's new route saw it empty into the Gulf of Mexico. Volcanic activity caused this river to become obstructed as well, creating a vast lake.

  • Rivers reunited

    3. Rivers reunited

    Eventually a path was eroded through the Kaibab plateau, accelerated by the last ice ages, and the old Pacific-ward segment of river was reconnected to the rest of it.

  • The emergence of the Little Colorado River

    4. The emergence of the Little Colorado River

    With a steeper route heading west now open, the waters of the ancient Lake Bidahochi were drained, leaving just a deep crevice through which the Little Colorado River now runs.

  • It never stops!

    5. It never stops!

    Though the bulk of it formed during this epoch, continued erosion and rock falls have expanded the canyon further still. It may look very different in another 35 million years!

Planning Your Visit

  • When to visit?

    April to early June is a great time to visit the Grand Canyon, arriving just in time to make the most of the rising temperatures before the intense heat and bursts of rain that come with summer. September and early November are also good times to go if you want to avoid the peak-season crowds before it gets too cold!

  • What to pack?

    The weather can be unpredictable so pack rain gear even if it's gorgeous when you set out. In summer, the cool canyon breeze can also disguise the heat of the sun's rays, so be sure to wear sunscreen even if it doesn't feel necessary. Bring plenty of water, too, of course, and light snacks. Trust us, you'll be better off topping your energy up as you go rather than setting out after a heavy meal!

  • What to wear?

    When it's hot, cover up in light, airy fabrics rather than revealing tops and shorts, as you'll be highly exposed to the sun. Sunhats and sunglasses are also a must in summer, and comfortable walking shoes are essential at any time of year. Make sure your feet don't slip around in them either, or the steep canyon trails may result in bloody toes!

Good to know

  • When should I visit?
    The South Rim is open all year round, the North Rim is only open from May 15th to October 15th.
  • Is it expensive?
    An individual permit is $12 and is good for 7 days.
  • Will I need a guide?
    There are some great tours available! Might be worth it to check out our best-selling tours.
  • How to get there
    By car you can take a scenic drive through the Kaibab National Forest, or sit back, relax and take the Arizona Shuttle.
  • Additional information
    There are several free admission days, so check the website before your visit! |
    Don't forget that if you are bringing a car, you'll have to pay for a vehicle permit, as well.

What people are saying about Grand Canyon

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 5,130 reviews

Our guide, "Kevin" was very knowledgeable. We appreciate that he took us to the parts of the Grand Canyon that were not busy. With the hundreds of cars coming into the park we were concerned that we'd be shoulder to shoulder on the rim of the canyon, but he knew just where to take us to see the beautiful sites and no crowds. That knowledge of where to go to avoid the crowds, but still all the amazing views was worth the price of the tour. Our small group enhanced the experience. We are glad that we purchased our tour. I had a Senior Pass to the park and could have gotten into the park for free, but I chose to purchase the guided tour of the canyon and it was worth the price.

Grand Canyon Classic Sightseeing Tour Departing Flagstaff Reviewed by Kirk, 4/10/2021

Helpful?

This trip was amazing. The company made it so easy! We were picked up in a Mercedes convertible van, stopped at the Cameron Trading Post, and headed to the Grand Canyon. Riding through the park with the top down was so fun and had the best views. Sheldon, our guide was so funny and knowledgeable. He really made the trip one to remember. I would highly suggest this trip and tour to anyone! It made our visit easy and enjoyable.

From Sedona or Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Full-Day Tour Reviewed by Baleigh, 4/13/2021

Helpful?

Our tour guide Walter made all the difference in that trip - he is funny, well versed and knowledgeable on the history of Vegas and the trip itself, polite but at the same time comical- made the trip though long feels like it went so quick you want more from him- I will do it again anytime . We celebrated our 31st wedding anniversary that trip made it so memorable and fun ❤️❤️❤️

Las Vegas: Grand Canyon West Bus Tour with Optional Skywalk Reviewed by Evan, 4/13/2021

Helpful?

We took a tour with Sweetours. It was great! The tour guide, Dirk, was funny and knowledgeable. The Grand Canyon was beautiful! We did not get to stop at the Hoover Dam because they are not accepting large parties at this time due to Covid. we did get a view of it on the ride back, though. All in all, it was a great tour. I would recommend.

Las Vegas: Grand Canyon West Bus Tour with Optional Skywalk Reviewed by Amber, 4/10/2021

Helpful?

Steve was absolutely phenomenal!! He is a great tour guide!! Very patient and considerate. The covid restrictions did interfere with the tour. It was an amazing experience! We are so grateful to Steve and his abundance of knowledge. Not to mention, his hospitality is unmatched!! Basically Steve is truly a treasure. Thank you!

Sedona: Grand Canyon Sunset Tour with Dinner Reviewed by Tiavian, 4/12/2021

Helpful?

Top Attractions in Arizona

Cities in United States

Things to Do in Arizona