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Which Grand Canyon Rim Should You Visit?

It's the question most asked at the outset of Grand Canyon vacation planning: Which rim should I visit? Without knowing anything about your travel plans, personality, budget or time table, we recommend the South Rim. Hands down, the South Rim is THE place to visit at the Grand Canyon. It's often described as "the real Grand Canyon" and it's the part of the National Park that you've undoubtedly seen in movies, photographs and magazines. Truth be told, we might recommend the South Rim even if we DID know your travel plans, personality, budget and time table, but since we can't get to know all 5+ million visitors the Grand Canyon attracts each year, we've put together this handy comparison chart of the South, West and North Rims side by side.

Where Should You Start?

It may help you to narrow your options just by knowing which city you'll be starting from. If you're starting in Phoenix, you're most likely to choose the South Rim for your trip. Likewise, if your visit will originate in Las Vegas, it'd certainly make sense to consider the West Rim. Of course, there are other variables that may influence your decision in the end. For example, if you have your heart set on taking a helicopter and landing on the floor of the Canyon, then the West Rim is right for you. On the other hand, if you're really into camping, hiking and near solitude, then be sure to choose the North Rim. Finally, if you want to see other attractions and activities besides the Grand Canyon, then the South Rim is right up your alley. Only you know what your needs and priorities are, so check out the criteria and available options to help you decide which rim to visit.

SOME GRAND CANYON TRIP IDEAS

Best Grand Canyon Day Tour

Best Grand Canyon Day Tour

Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five million people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professi

Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five million people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professional guides will make sure you get the most out of your trip. While touring in comfort you will learn about the geology and history of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The day tour includes short walks to some incredible "less-used" outlooks, a looking into some of the areas most impressive historic buildings, and time to browse resident art galleries and gift shops.

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9.9
Grand Canyon Airlines

Grand Canyon Airlines

Don't just view the Canyon from the rim when you can fly the Grand Canyon with a legend! Since 1927, Grand Canyon Airlines has been the premier fixed wing provider of scenic Grand Canyon tour flights. Specially patented, exclusive aircraft provide crystal clear viewing with narration in ei
Don't just view the Canyon from the rim when you can fly the Grand Canyon with a legend! Since 1927, Grand Canyon Airlines has been the premier fixed wing provider of scenic Grand Canyon tour flights. Specially patented, exclusive aircraft provide crystal clear viewing with narration in eight different languages. The classic Grand Discovery Tour is the ultimate Canyon view.
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9.5
Grand Canyon Railway

Grand Canyon Railway

Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon Nation
Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon National Park.
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9.9
Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopters

World's Largest and Most Experienced Helicopter Sightseeing Company! Daily multilingual tours of Grand Canyon departing from Grand Canyon Airport at the South Rim near Tusayan. Choose from a variety of Helicopter Tours, whether you have 1 hour or several to see the Grand Canyon.
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9.9
Wildland Trekking

Wildland Trekking

Go on an epic journey to the Grand Canyon! Services include 1 to 8 day hiking adventures, tasty backcountry cuisine, and quality gear served up by America's most experienced and knowledgeable Grand Canyon guides. 25+ years experience in adventure travel.
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9.5
Maverick Helicopter Tours

Maverick Helicopter Tours

Maverick Helicopters provides helicopter tours to the Grand Canyon. Maverick brings VIP and first-class service to the Grand Canyon. Maverick's helicopters are climate-controlled, specifically built for sightseeing with unobstructed views. Maverick is the world's largest operator of ECO-
Maverick Helicopters provides helicopter tours to the Grand Canyon. Maverick brings VIP and first-class service to the Grand Canyon. Maverick's helicopters are climate-controlled, specifically built for sightseeing with unobstructed views. Maverick is the world's largest operator of ECO-Star helicopters. They give you an adventure of a lifetime and not just another tour of the Grand Canyon. Maverick takes you further and deeper into the Grand Canyon than any other company.
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9.5
Pink Jeep Tours

Pink Jeep Tours

Enjoy first-class comfort with a passionate tour guide to the Grand Canyon's stunning West Rim. Travel by Tour Trekker and transform your trip into the experience of a lifetime, creating memories of the history, geology and more from expert guides.
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9.5
Maverick Airlines: Fly To The Grand Canyon

Maverick Airlines: Fly To The Grand Canyon

Fly to the Grand Canyon and enjoy our air or land tours through one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Maverick Airlines offers you an exclusive check-in terminal with VIP customer service. Maverick’s aircraft will fly you to the Grand Canyon National Park where you will experience one o
Fly to the Grand Canyon and enjoy our air or land tours through one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Maverick Airlines offers you an exclusive check-in terminal with VIP customer service. Maverick’s aircraft will fly you to the Grand Canyon National Park where you will experience one of our elite Grand Canyon air and land tours. You will take pleasure in the awe-inspiring scenery the Southwest has to offer at one of marvels of the world.
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9.5
Sedona Real Inn & Suites - South Rim

Sedona Real Inn & Suites - South Rim

Our family-owned and operated inn feels different from other Sedona hotels because it is. When you're here, you'll experience the comfort and convenience that you're used to in your own home. With our very own pet-friendly park, sparkling pool, and fitness center, many of our guests enjoy
Our family-owned and operated inn feels different from other Sedona hotels because it is. When you're here, you'll experience the comfort and convenience that you're used to in your own home. With our very own pet-friendly park, sparkling pool, and fitness center, many of our guests enjoy spending part of their Sedona vacation relaxing with us. With a country inn atmosphere, and bed and breakfast feel, each of the 42 traditional rooms and 47 spacious suites offer comfortable accommodations. All our rooms include complimentary WiFi and a hot breakfast bar to get your day started! Your four-legged family members will love our grassy outside play area with a barbecue and fire-pit. The concierge is on-site daily to share the best things to do in Sedona.
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9.1
134 reviews
Little America Hotel Flagstaff - South Rim

Little America Hotel Flagstaff - South Rim

Little America is truly one of the best Flagstaff hotels. From our 500-acre private forest to our friendly, knowledgeable concierge staff, Little America exemplifies the adventurous spirit and hospitality of Grand Canyon area Flagstaff hotels.
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9.3
2054 reviews
Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour with Optional Below-the-Rim Landing and Skywalk

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour with Optional Below-the-Rim Landing and Skywalk

What’s the ultimate way to have a Grand Canyon experience from Las Vegas? Try this exciting helicopter tour. Enjoy a scenic flight from Las Vegas to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. Take in the breathtaking views from the overlooks at Eagle Point and Guano Point. As added options, visit t
What’s the ultimate way to have a Grand Canyon experience from Las Vegas? Try this exciting helicopter tour. Enjoy a scenic flight from Las Vegas to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. Take in the breathtaking views from the overlooks at Eagle Point and Guano Point. As added options, visit the Grand Canyon Skywalk for a photo opportunity or swoop down to the base of the canyon to experience the stunning views from below. Las Vegas hotel pickup/drop-off included.
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Grand Canyon West Rim Bus or Private Tour

Grand Canyon West Rim Bus or Private Tour

Marvel at the incredible scenery of the Grand Canyon’s West Rim thanks to this 12-hour flexible sightseeing trip from Las Vegas. Take a hop-on, hop-off bus tour along the edge of the canyon, stopping at highlights like Eagle Point, Guano Point and Hualapai Cowboy Ranch. Optional trip upgra
Marvel at the incredible scenery of the Grand Canyon’s West Rim thanks to this 12-hour flexible sightseeing trip from Las Vegas. Take a hop-on, hop-off bus tour along the edge of the canyon, stopping at highlights like Eagle Point, Guano Point and Hualapai Cowboy Ranch. Optional trip upgrades including a helicopter flight or access to the Skywalk viewing platform are also available.
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Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam Small Group Day Tour

Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam Small Group Day Tour

Experience the world-famous Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam in style during this luxury small-group day trip from Las Vegas. Travel aboard a vehicle with leather seats, USB ports, and outlets as you make stops at the Hoover Dam, Dolan Springs, and Grand Canyon West Rim (site of the Skywalk). R
Experience the world-famous Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam in style during this luxury small-group day trip from Las Vegas. Travel aboard a vehicle with leather seats, USB ports, and outlets as you make stops at the Hoover Dam, Dolan Springs, and Grand Canyon West Rim (site of the Skywalk). Round-trip hotel transport and lunch are included, and an optional Skywalk ticket upgrade package is available.
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9.9
Small-Group Grand Canyon West Rim Day Trip from Las Vegas with Optional Skywalk

Small-Group Grand Canyon West Rim Day Trip from Las Vegas with Optional Skywalk

Explore one of the seven wonders of the world—the Grand Canyon—on this day trip to the west rim from Las Vegas. With included transport to and from the Strip, you can easily plan this day trip into your Las Vegas getaway. Along the way, stop for photos at the Hoover Dam. Take in views of t
Explore one of the seven wonders of the world—the Grand Canyon—on this day trip to the west rim from Las Vegas. With included transport to and from the Strip, you can easily plan this day trip into your Las Vegas getaway. Along the way, stop for photos at the Hoover Dam. Take in views of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River at Guano Point and Eagle Point. Plus, for the more adventurous, choose to walk the edge of the Grand Canyon on the Grand Canyon Skywalk for an added expense.
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9.0
South Kaibab Day Hike Tour

South Kaibab Day Hike Tour

Wildland Trekking's expert guides are the best in the business, which is why we are the #1 rated Outdoor Activity at Grand Canyon National Park on Trip Advisor. We will show you the best of the South Rim by pointing out amazing landmarks, teaching you about the history and geology of the G
Wildland Trekking's expert guides are the best in the business, which is why we are the #1 rated Outdoor Activity at Grand Canyon National Park on Trip Advisor. We will show you the best of the South Rim by pointing out amazing landmarks, teaching you about the history and geology of the Grand Canyon, and helping you vastly increase the safety of your hike with expert guidance and preparation. Enjoy a wonderful picnic lunch, tasty snacks, excellent gear and passionate, educated, professional guides!
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9.9
Grand Canyon Hike & Sightseeing Tour

Grand Canyon Hike & Sightseeing Tour

Enjoy a great tour with a knowledgeable, friendly, enthusiastic guide who loves what they do. We provide door-to-door service from your stay place with everything you need to have a great time. Grab your camera and leave the lunch, snacks, beverages, hiking equipment, and driving to us!

Enjoy a great tour with a knowledgeable, friendly, enthusiastic guide who loves what they do. We provide door-to-door service from your stay place with everything you need to have a great time. Grab your camera and leave the lunch, snacks, beverages, hiking equipment, and driving to us! We pick up in the following towns: Flagstaff, Williams, Tusayan, and Grand Canyon.

Currently, the Park Service is not allowing us to mix groups due to COVID-19 safety procedures, so we are unable to provide this tour for less than 4 people. If you have a smaller group, please reach out to our company directly to discuss other options. By far our most popular hiking tour, this hike and sightseeing tour offers guests varying views of the Canyon, from the inside out. This tour is for guests who want to enjoy an excellent tour of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, but also spend some time below the Rim.

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The Mountain Star - South Rim

The Mountain Star - South Rim

The best vacation home rental between the Grand Canyon and Flagstaff Located in the heart of the Coconino National Forest along the San Francisco Peaks scenic corridor between the mountain town of Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon. Less than one hour's drive from the Grand C
The best vacation home rental between the Grand Canyon and Flagstaff Located in the heart of the Coconino National Forest along the San Francisco Peaks scenic corridor between the mountain town of Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon. Less than one hour's drive from the Grand Canyon National Park south entrance through scenic countryside, this spectacular and convenient location sets The Mountain Star apart from properties located within the city of Flagstaff, the town of Williams and other rural locations. It can be rented for as little as 2 days, but is a perfect place for extended stays. Come experience why The Mountain Star has received well over two hundred (and growing) 5-star reviews.
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9.9
Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour from Las Vegas with Optional Upgrades

Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour from Las Vegas with Optional Upgrades

Experience one of the seven natural wonders of the world from the land, air and water on this guided, full-day tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. Travel through a Joshua Tree forest en route to the Grand Canyon’s West Rim for sightseeing how you wish. Upgrade to add a walk on the gla
Experience one of the seven natural wonders of the world from the land, air and water on this guided, full-day tour from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. Travel through a Joshua Tree forest en route to the Grand Canyon’s West Rim for sightseeing how you wish. Upgrade to add a walk on the glass-bottomed Grand Canyon Skywalk and/or a thrilling helicopter flight into the canyon coupled with a pontoon boat ride on the Colorado River. A hot lunch at the Grand Canyon and hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
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Bright Angel Trail Day Hike Tour

Bright Angel Trail Day Hike Tour

Our Bright Angel Trail day hike offers a tour with many options for length and difficulty, and it has shade, water and bathrooms roughly every 1.5 miles up and down. On the longer side, we can hike to Plateau Point which is a wonderful option for the fittest and most adventurous of visitor
Our Bright Angel Trail day hike offers a tour with many options for length and difficulty, and it has shade, water and bathrooms roughly every 1.5 miles up and down. On the longer side, we can hike to Plateau Point which is a wonderful option for the fittest and most adventurous of visitors. And on the shorter side, we can hike to one of the rest houses for a moderate, stunningly beautiful hike. So for families, couples, and solo travelers, of an adventure and fitness level, this hike has a lot to offer!
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In the Spotlight

Pink Jeep Tours
Pink Jeep Tours »
Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins - South Rim
Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins - South Rim »
Grand Canyon Railway
Grand Canyon Railway »
Maverick Helicopter Tours
Maverick Helicopter Tours »

RELATED TRIP IDEAS

Grand Canyon Hiking Trails
Grand Canyon Hiking Trails »
Places to Stay in Flagstaff
Places to Stay in Flagstaff »
Best Places to Stay in Sedona
Best Places to Stay in Sedona »
Tours from Grand Canyon National Park
Tours from Grand Canyon National Park »
Walk a Glass Bridge Over the Grand Canyon
Walk a Glass Bridge Over the Grand Canyon »
West Rim vs South Rim
West Rim vs South Rim »
What's the Weather Like at Grand Canyon?
What's the Weather Like at Grand Canyon? »
North Rim Directions
North Rim Directions »
Tours by Bus, Van, Jeep & Hummers
Tours by Bus, Van, Jeep & Hummers »
Grand Canyon North Rim
Grand Canyon North Rim »

More PLACES TO STAY IN Grand Canyon

Trapper's Rendezvous
Trapper's Rendezvous
From $192.82
The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon
The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon
From $139.49
The Lodge on Route 66
The Lodge on Route 66
From $79.00
Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn
Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn
From $146.30
Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
From $76.99
Ramada by Wyndham Kingman
Ramada by Wyndham Kingman
From $62.10

GRAND CANYON TRIP IDEAS

Grand Canyon from the Air

Grand Canyon from the Air

Walk a Glass Bridge Over the Grand Canyon

Walk a Glass Bridge Over the Grand Canyon

River Rafting Through Grand Canyon

River Rafting Through Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon Train Ride

Grand Canyon Train Ride