Only A Day

Even a single day on the South Rim of the park can afford pleasant walks with spectacular vistas and fascinating points of interest. Here's a recommended itinerary if you only have a day:

Canyon View Information Plaza: Stop at Canyon View Information Plaza in the Village to receive an orientation to the park. For more information, please see page 12. (Accessible by free shuttle only.)

Yavapai Observation Station: Catch spectacular views of the canyon from large observation windows. Be sure to visit the new displays and learn about the geology of the park. See The Guide for current program schedule.

Hermit Road and Rim Trail: Enjoy this 16-mile round trip by convenient shuttle or on foot along the Rim Trail. The route includes eight main viewpoints along the Hermit Road.

Desert View Drive: Tracing the South Rim for 23 miles between the Village and Desert View, Desert View Drive features striking canyon vistas, Tusayan Ruin and spectacular views from the Watchtower of the Painted Desert, the Colorado River, the San Francisco Peaks and the Vermilion Cliffs.

Hiking: Even in a day, you can still hike a short way into the canyon along the Bright Angel or South Kaibab trails. Remember that aridity and high elevation can make hiking the canyon exhausting, even for the physically fit. Don't overexert yourself and allow twice as much time to hike up as it takes to hike down. Wear a hat, sturdy shoes, sunglasses, bring water and take a jacket because high-desert weather can change rapidly.

Motor Coach Tour: Enjoy an escorted tour of the Hermit Road or Desert View Drive. Please see "Harveycar Tours" on page 44 for more information.