Grand Canyon Itinerary

  1. 8:00AM: Hike the Bright Angel Trail
    Starting at the South Kaibab Trailhead (25-minute shuttle ride from Visitor Center)

    Embark on a 3-mile round trip hike on one of the most popular Grand Canyon trails, which offers breathtaking views of the canyon's rippled cliffs. The trail descends 1.5 miles into the canyon, but only experienced hikers should attempt to go further.

  2. 11:00AM: Visit the Abyss Overlook
    30 minutes (20 miles) from Bright Angel Trailhead

    Take in panoramic views of the canyon while standing 3000 feet above the Colorado River at the Abyss Overlook. You can see the river and the 215-foot Horseshoe Mesa waterfall from afar.

  3. 1:00PM: Lunch at the El Tovar Dining Room
    20 minutes (8 miles) from Abyss Overlook

    Enjoy a relaxing meal in the grand surroundings of the El Tovar Hotel, which effortlessly blends luxury and history. With floor-to-ceiling windows providing stunning views of the canyon, indulge in popular dishes like the signature El Tovar Pork Tenderloin.

  4. 2:30PM: Visit the Desert View Watchtower
    25 minutes (13 miles) from El Tovar Dining Room

    Modeled after ancestral Puebloan towers, the Desert View Watchtower stands at a height of 70 feet and offers 360-degree views of the canyon. With murals and sculptures inspired by Hopi legends, this is truly a unique and culturally-rich destination to take in the scenery and history.

  5. 4:00PM: Yavapai Geology Museum
    15 minutes (7 miles) from Desert View Watchtower

    Learn about the geological formations and history of the canyon in the exhibits that this museum has. Enjoy films about the park's natural history and geological formations. Children can participate in the Junior Ranger program.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Bright Angel Trail (3 hours, free)
  • Abyss Overlook (1 hour, free)
  • El Tovar Dining Room (1.5 hour, $25-50 per person)
  • Desert View Watchtower (1 hour, free)
  • Yavapai Geology Museum (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs ($25-50 per person excluding transport and parking fees)

Useful Tips

For those with more time, hiking further down the Bright Angel Trail, visiting the Tusayan Ruin and Museum, or taking a helicopter or airplane tour over the canyon can be added to the itinerary. For those with less time, the Desert View Overlook can be substituted for the Abyss Overlook as it is closer to the Visitor Center and requires less time. Please check the park's website for updated schedules and closures.

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