22 Best Views in Grand Canyon National Park South Rim

Few places allow you to gaze upon one of the seven wonders of the natural world. From glowing orange canyon depths to unparalleled vistas, the South Rim is the best place to take in the Grand Canyon’s natural beauty.

But with only a day or two in the park, how do you prioritize your time? How can you see the best views in Grand Canyon National Park quickly?

This guide is here to help!

In this blog post, I’m sharing the 22 best views of the Grand Canyon from the South Rim (plus some bonus viewpoints along the North Rim!) as well as more details to help plan your trip.

This post may contain affiliate links, where I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Read more in this disclosure policy.

Overview of the Grand Canyon Regions

Before diving into the best viewpoints at the Grand Canyon South Rim, we should first discuss the various regions of the Grand Canyon.

The Grand Canyon spans roughly 227 miles along the Colorado River in northern Arizona. However, the National Park Service only protects portions of these lands, while other areas fall under local or indigenous jurisdictions. 

Generally, the Grand Canyon can be broken up into three main sections:

• South Rim: This is the most visited area of the Grand Canyon and the focus of this blog post. The South Rim is home to popular hiking trails like Bright Angel Trail and Grand Canyon Village and stunning viewpoints like Mather Point. The South Rim also has several lodges, campgrounds, and restaurants and is open year-round. A free shuttle service helps visitors navigate the South Rim, connecting most of the viewpoints listed in this guide. A 40-minute drive takes you to the southeastern part of the canyon (sometimes called the ‘East Rim’), which features the Desert View Watchtower.
• North Rim: Located 10 miles across the Grand Canyon from the South Rim, reaching the North Rim requires detouring nearly 4 hours out and around (unless you hike through the canyon!). This lesser-visited part of the Grand Canyon is only open in the summer.
• Grand Canyon West: The western rim of the Grand Canyon is part of the Hualapai Indian Tribal Lands, not the national park. Located about two hours from Las Vegas, this is the most popular part of the Grand Canyon for a day trip. Grand Canyon West features the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bottom platform that juts 70 feet over the canyon floor.

For this post, we’re focused on the most visited South Rim. But at the end, I have included some bonus recommendations for the North Rim if you plan to visit both!

These viewpoints at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon are broken down by area:

• Grand Canyon Village: The most centrally located part of the South Rim, featuring some of the most famed viewpoints in the park. These viewpoints are walkable via a short walk along the Rim Trail.
• Hermit’s Rest Road: This part of the park is closed to vehicles for most of the year and requires guests to take the free park shuttle, hike along the Rim Trail, or bike along the Greenway to access.
• Desert View Drive: The viewpoints along Desert View Drive require a vehicle to reach. The scenic drive connects Grand Canyon Village to the Desert View Watchtower, with many scenic stops.

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Best Viewpoints in Grand Canyon Village

If you’re only visiting the Grand Canyon South Rim for a day, your time is best spent exploring the viewpoints in the Grand Canyon Village. 

The best way to see these viewpoints is to park at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, visiting Mather Point first and ending at Bright Angel Trailhead.

These viewpoints are listed from east to west:

• Mather Point (0.3-mile walk from the visitor center)
• Yavapai Point (0.7-mile hike along the Rim Trail or one stop on the Kaibab Rim Orange Route shuttle)
• Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio (2.0-mile hike along the Rim Trail or take the Kaibab Rim Orange Route shuttle back to the visitor center and transfer to the Village Blue Route getting off at Bright Angel Lodge)
• Bright Angel Trailhead (0.2-mile walk along the Rim Trail)
• Plateau Point (Bonus for experienced hikers! Located 6 miles and 3,000 feet into the canyon along the Bright Angel Trail)

1. Mather Point

Mather Point is one of the most popular stops at the Grand Canyon South Rim for first-time visitors, and it’s easy to see why. With its proximity to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, it’s just a short 0.3-mile walk to access some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon. 

From the large viewing platform atop a rocky outcrop, visitors can soak in the vibrant colors and jagged edges that have become synonymous with the Grand Canyon. Views include Bright Angel Canyon and Isis Temple.

Early morning at sunrise or late afternoon, just before sunset, is an ideal time to visit to catch the soft, golden light dancing across the canyon walls. Mather Point is the most popular spot in the park for sunrise, so arrive early to get a place on the viewing platform!

2. Yavapai Point

Located just 0.7 miles west along the Rim Trail from Mather Point, Yavapai Point is another must-see stop. This viewpoint offers a slightly different perspective and a stunning visual representation of the canyon’s vast depth and geological layers. 

While the outdoor viewpoint is excellent, the highlight of this stop is the Yavapai Geology Museum. This stunning observation station has informative displays and panoramic windows overlooking the canyon. 

Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit Yavapai Point, as the light and shadow reveal a constantly changing landscape to the east and the west. At sunrise, Yavapai Point can be an excellent, less crowded alternative to Mather Point.

3. Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio

Designed by famed architect Mary Colter, the Mary Colter Lookout Studio is not just a viewpoint but a piece of art. This stone building blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings, contrasting the canyon’s rugged beauty. 

 Visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of Bright Angel Trail and the Colorado River below. Late afternoon is a beautiful time to visit as the sun begins to dip, casting a warm glow on the canyon walls.

4. Bright Angel Trailhead

Bright Angel Trailhead is the gateway for those eager to venture into the canyon. This viewpoint is not just a starting point for one of the most popular hikes in the Grand Canyon but a spot where one can appreciate the intricate network of trails winding down into the canyon’s heart.

If hiking is outside your agenda, the view alone is worth the visit, offering glimpses of mule trains and intrepid hikers making their descent. Morning is an excellent time to visit, especially if you’re setting off on a hike, as the temperatures aren’t too hot yet.

5. Plateau Point

A bonus for experienced hikers, Plateau Point is accessed by a 6-mile one-way (12-mile round trip) hike descending 3,000 feet along the Bright Angel Trail. This viewpoint offers a unique perspective from inside the canyon.

The unobstructed views of the Colorado River and the sense of being enveloped by the towering canyon walls are genuinely awe-inspiring. A full day is needed to hike to Plateau Point and back, so plan to start at sunrise to avoid the midday heat.

If you want to explore below the canyon but only some way to Plateau Point, consider hiking part of the way down the Bright Angel Trail instead. Here are the roundtrip distances and elevation changes to the key landmarks on the Bright Angel Trail:

• First Tunnel: 0.1 miles / Limited elevation change / 20 minutes
• Second Tunnel: 1.8 miles / 590 feet elevation / 1-2 hours
• 1.5-Mile Resthouse: 3 miles / 1,120 feet elevation / 2-4 hours
• 3-Mile Resthouse: 6 miles / 2,120 feet elevation / 4-6 hours
• Havasupai Gardens (formerly Indian Gardens): 9 miles / 3,040 feet elevation/ 6-9 hours
• Plateau Point: 12 miles / 3,080 feet elevation / 9-12 hours

Looking for more activities? Check out this post on the best things to do in the Grand Canyon!

Best Viewpoints Along Hermit’s Rest Road

If you have two days in the Grand Canyon, plan to visit both the viewpoints in Grand Canyon Village and those along Hermit’s Rest Road. The views along Hermit’s Rest Road are some of my favorites in the park and tend to be less crowded.

Hermit’s Rest Road is roughly 7 miles long, stretching from Grand Canyon Village to Hermits Rest. Visitors must take the park shuttle from March 1 to November 30, as private vehicles are prohibited.

The best way to see these viewpoints is to park in Grand Canyon Village and take the shuttle or walk to Trailview Overlook first from the Village Route Transfer. You could also rent bicycles from Bright Angel Bicycles near the visitor center and bike the length of Hermit’s Rest Road.

These viewpoints are listed from east to west with the walking distances along the Rim Trail. Alternatively, each stop is along the Hermit Road shuttle route, where you can hop on / hop off for each viewpoint.

• Trailview Overlook (0.5-mile walk along the Rim Trail from the Village Route Transfer shuttle stop)
• Maricopa Point (0.6-mile walk along the Rim Trail)
• Powell Point (0.7-mile walk along the Rim Trail)
• Hopi Point (0.3-mile walk along the Rim Trail)
• Mohave Point (1.0-mile walk along the Rim Trail)
• The Abyss (1.1-mile walk along the Rim Trail)
• Monument Creek Vista (1.0-mile walk along the Rim Trail)
• Pima Point (1.8-mile walk along the Rim Trail)
• Hermits Rest (1.1-mile walk along the Rim Trail)

You can also visit both the Grand Canyon Village and Hermit’s Rest Road viewpoints in one day by parking at the visitor center, exploring the Village viewpoints in the morning, and then picking up the shuttle to Hermit’s Rest Road for the afternoon.

Read More: One Day Grand Canyon Itinerary

6. Trailview Overlook

Trailview Overlook offers a fantastic view of the bustling Grand Canyon Village and the switchbacking Bright Angel Trail. From here, visitors can appreciate the sheer scale of the canyon and the man-made trails within it. 

The late afternoon sunlight creates a striking contrast that enhances the beauty of this viewpoint, making it an ideal time for photographers and casual observers alike.

7. Maricopa Point

At Maricopa Point, the canyon opens up, offering expansive vistas to both the east and west that stretch out to the Colorado River. The viewpoint provides excellent 270-degree views across the Grand Canyon to the North Rim!

Visiting at sunset provides a serene and colorful experience, as the setting sun casts a warm, golden hue over the canyon. 

8. Powell Point

Named after John Wesley Powell, a famous explorer of the Colorado River, Powell Point is marked by a memorial that pays tribute to the Grand Canyon’s early explorers. 

With a broad vista encompassing both the canyon’s depths and the expansive horizon, this spot will leave you in awe. Powell Point extends further into the canyon, making it an excellent place for sunrise or sunset. 

The early morning light or sunset golden hour adds a touch of tranquility and mystery to this historical viewpoint which can be enjoyed from the benches surrounding the view.

Powell Point is a short walk to Hopi Point, so you can easily explore the viewpoints along the Rim Trail between these two points.

9. Hopi Point

Hopi Point is renowned for its stunning sunsets and is often considered one of the best places in the park to end your day. Offering sweeping 270-degree views of the inner canyon and your first views along Hermits Rest Road of the Colorado River, the panoramic scenery here is simply breathtaking. 

The view stretches to several iconic landmarks and provides vantage points to the east and the west, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers. But since this spot is well-known for sunset, arrive early to find your unique vantage point!

If you only have time for one viewpoint along Hermits Rest Road, don’t miss Hopi Point!

10. Mohave Point

Just a mile from Hopi Point, Mohave Point offers incredible views of the Colorado River’s rapids and west-facing canyon views. The viewpoint is primarily known for the “Battleship,” a rock formation that stands out against the surrounding landscape. 

Midday, when the sun is high, provides the best lighting to appreciate this unique viewpoint’s complex textures and colors. Mohave Point is also an excellent choice for less crowded west-facing sunset views.

11. The Abyss

The Abyss lives up to its name, with a sheer vertical drop that plunges dramatically into the canyon. This viewpoint offers a vertigo-inducing perspective of the 3,000-foot drop into the Grand Canyon, allowing visitors to appreciate its depth like nowhere else. 

Early morning or late afternoon, when shadows add dimension to the view, is an ideal time to visit. 

If you’re short on time, consider skipping The Abyss, as the views are essentially the same as Mohave Point except for the ravine.

12. Monument Creek Vista

Monument Creek Vista offers unique views of the Granite Rapids and the Monument Creek area. While the scenery here isn’t expansive, it provides a glimpse into the narrow, rugged gorge and helps you appreciate the powerful forces that shaped it. 

Sunrise or early morning visits provide the best opportunities to see the play of light and shadow that reveal the details of this fascinating landscape.

If you’re only interested in expansive canyon views, skip Monument Creek Vista, as the pictures are only of a narrow gorge between the canyon walls.

13. Pima Point

Pima Point is a must-see for those looking to understand the full scale and majesty of the Grand Canyon. From here, visitors have the best views of the Colorado River and can often hear the roar of the rapids, even though they are a mile below. 

The unobstructed views, especially during sunrise or sunset, provide an awe-inspiring experience and a sense of the canyon’s timeless beauty. At dawn, you’ll see the light to the east, casting the canyon’s western part in a morning glow. At sunset, the sun will illuminate the red rock in a fiery burn to the east.

14. Hermits Rest

The terminus of Hermit’s Rest Road, Hermits Rest, provides a place to relax and reflect. Mary Colter designed the historic Hermits Rest building, adding charm to this viewpoint. 

The late afternoon or early evening is a perfect time to settle down with a snack from the shop inside the rest house. Most of the viewpoint is obstructed by tree growth, but there are incredible views through the trees. Relax here before heading back to Grand Canyon Village.

Best Viewpoints Along Desert View Drive

If you have two to three days in the Grand Canyon and want to escape some of the crowds in Grand Canyon Village, don’t miss the scenic trip along Desert View Drive.

This 23-mile scenic route heads east from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center to the Desert View Watchtower. Unlike other park areas, the free shuttle does not extend along Desert View Drive. To see these viewpoints, you’ll need to drive your vehicle.

Plan for this scenic road trip to take at least four hours with stops.

These viewpoints are listed from east to west with the driving distances between each stop. I recommend driving out to Desert View Watchtower first and then working your way back, making for all right-hand turns on your return journey.

• Desert View Watchtower
• Navajo Point (0.9 mile / 3-minute drive)
• Lipan Point (1.6 mile / 4-minute drive)
• Moran Point (5.8 mile / 11-minute drive)
• Grandview Point (6.7 mile / 12-minute drive)
• Shoshone Point (7.0 mile / 12-minute drive)

After Shoshone Point, you must return to the visitor center to hop on the Kaibab Rim Orange Shuttle. Private vehicles cannot park at the South Kaibab Trailhead or Yaki Point during peak season. However, if you’re visiting in the off-season, you can park directly at the trailhead. 

• Ooh Ahh Point (2.4 mile / 6-minute drive to trailhead + 1-mile hike to viewpoint)
• Yaki Point (1-mile drive along Desert View Watchtower or one stop of the Kaibab Rim Orange Shuttle)

You’ll note that the last two viewpoints are accessible along the Kaibab Rim Orange Shuttle Route. However, the shuttle does not extend past Yaki Point.

Visiting the Grand Canyon from the Monument Valley or Page areas takes you through the East Entrance, perfect for stopping at these viewpoints on your way into the park. Alternatively, you can stop at the views in reverse order from West to East on your way out of the park.

15. Desert View Watchtower

Standing tall at the eastern end of the South Rim, the Desert View Watchtower offers one of the most magnificent panoramas in Grand Canyon National Park. The canyon flattens out into the desert to the east. Facing west, you’re rewarded with expansive views of the canyon.

From this vantage point, you can also see the 90-degree bend in the Colorado River as it turns from flowing north-south to flowing east-west

The historic Watchtower, designed by Mary Colter, provides a unique architectural viewpoint to enjoy the expansive scenery. During the day, you can take a tour of the watchtower!

Sunset or sunrise here is exceptional, with hues of orange and pink reflecting off the canyon walls, making it a favorite spot for photographers.

If you’re short on time, it’s worth stopping at the Desert View Watchtower to take in the architecture, beautiful views, and amenities at the shops and general store.

16. Navajo Point

Just a short drive from the Desert View Watchtower, Navajo Point boasts an impressive view of the Colorado River. The river appears like a winding ribbon through the canyon from this vantage, highlighting its role in carving this natural wonder. 

Navajo Point is the highest point along the South Rim, 7,498 feet above sea level. Looking back to the east, you can see the Watchtower standing tall. 

The afternoon or early evening is particularly striking at Navajo Point, as it illuminates the canyon’s depths and provides excellent visibility.

17. Lipan Point

Lipan Point offers a unique perspective of the Grand Canyon, with views of several significant rock formations, including the Colorado River and Hance Rapids. The distinct geological layers are visible here, making it a favorite for geology enthusiasts. 

Lipan Point also details the area’s indigenous history, with ruins visible along the delta in the canyon below.

This spot is best visited in the late afternoon, with soft light gently revealing the textures and colors of the canyon.

18. Moran Point

Named after the famous landscape artist Thomas Moran, Moran Point offers stunning vistas of the Red Canyon and the bend of the Colorado River. 

This viewpoint is unique in its ability to capture the vastness and intricate details of the canyon. To the east, you’ll see the river flowing through the canyon. To the west, you’re greeted with expansive canyon views.

Moran Point is a breathtaking spot for sunrise and early morning golden hour as the rising sun illuminates the landscape.

If you’re short on time, don’t miss Moran Point. This viewpoint is my favorite along Desert View Drive!

19. Grandview Point

As the name suggests, Grandview Point offers a grand and sweeping view of the Grand Canyon. Initially the site of the first hotel at the Grand Canyon, this viewpoint offers a unique mix of history and beautiful views.

While the view from the vantage point is obstructed by some trees, taking a short walk down the Grandview Trail a few hundred feet offers incredible wide-reaching views beyond the tree line.

Visit at sunrise to catch the first rays of the day lighting up the ancient rocks, creating a magical and unforgettable scene. You can capture beautiful east-facing canyon views glowing in the last light of day at sunset.

20. Shoshone Point

A hidden gem along Desert View Drive, Shoshone Point is accessed by a short hike each way and offers a more secluded viewpoint. Overlooking the Colorado River, it’s a perfect spot for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature. 

The late afternoon light enhances the beauty of this viewpoint as the setting sun reflects off the water below.

Shoshone Point is the only viewpoint along Desert View Watchtower that can’t be reached by car. You’ll need to drive out the 1-mile dirt road to the trailhead and then take the 2-mile round trip hike to see this view. 

Since this viewpoint requires a hike, consider skipping Shoshone Point if you’re short on time.

21. Ooh Aah Point

Living up to its name, Ooh Aah Point offers a view that will leave you in awe. Located along the South Kaibab Trail, this viewpoint requires a hike to reach the stunning views into the heart of the Grand Canyon. 

The best time to visit is in the early morning when you can enjoy a tranquil sunrise and beat the day’s heat.

You can continue along the South Kaibab Trail to several more spectacular vantage points if you want a longer hike. Here are the distances and elevation changes along the South Kaibab hike:

• Ooh Aah Point: 1.8 miles / 600 feet elevation
• Cedar Ridge: 3 miles / 1,140 feet elevation
• Skeleton Point: 6 miles / 2,060 feet elevation

To reach the South Kaibab Trail during peak season, you’ll need to drive back to the visitor center and park your car before boarding the Kaibab Rim Orange Shuttle Route out to the trailhead. Parking is not allowed at the trailhead during the peak season.

22. Yaki Point

Yaki Point provides an exceptional view of the South Rim, including glimpses of Phantom Ranch far below. Known for its unspoiled beauty, Yaki Point is a place to experience the Grand Canyon’s timeless allure. 

Sunset or early evening offers a calm and reflective experience as the sun dips below the horizon, and the canyon is bathed in a soft, warm glow.

To get here, take the shuttle from the visitor center or hop on the Kaibab Rim Orange Shuttle Route if you’re continuing from the South Kaibab Trail!

Looking for more activities? Check out this post on the best things to do in the Grand Canyon!

Best Grand Canyon South Rim Viewpoints for Sunrise and Sunset

Grand Canyon National Park offers spectacular sunrises and sunsets overlooking the deeply carved canyon. While each viewpoint provides something unique, some views are better for sunrise or sunset due to the angle of the sun and the shadows.

These are the best South Rim viewpoints for sunrise in the Grand Canyon:

• Mather Point: This is the most popular place in the park for sunrise, located a short walk from the visitor center.
• Yavapai Point: A short walk from Mather Point, this is another easily accessible spot for sunrise with fewer crowds.
• Ooh Aah Point: If you’re looking for a more remote vista, take the 1.8-mile round trip hike to Ooh Aah Point on the South Kaibab Trail for sunrise.

These are the best sunset spots at the Grand Canyon South Rim:

• Hopi Point: This is the most popular place in the park for sunset, located along Hermit’s Rest Road and requiring a shuttle to reach from March to November.
• Powell Point: Located a relatively short walk from Hopi Point, this viewpoint provides a different angle of the canyon with fewer crowds at sunset.
• Mohave Point: For a less crowded alternative to Hopi Point, consider the west-facing views at Mohave Point instead.
• Desert View Watchtower: If you have the time to drive out Desert View Drive, Desert View Watchtower is one of the best places to watch the sunset without the crowds

The Best Grand Canyon North Rim Viewpoints

While this guide focuses on the most-visited South Rim, there are also some excellent viewpoints of the Grand Canyon along the North Rim. If you are visiting in the summer and choose to make the four-hour drive to the North Rim, don’t miss these incredible viewpoints.

• Point Imperial: This viewpoint is an excellent spot to catch the sunrise, located at the highest point along the Grand Canyon rim at 8,803 feet. It’s also the northernmost boundary of Grand Canyon National Park and provides excellent views looking both south into the canyon and east to the Painted Desert.
• Bright Angel Point: This is one of the most famous viewpoints along the North Rim, providing beautiful sunset views. Reaching this viewpoint requires a short hike of about 0.5 miles down the trail from the Grand Canyon Lodge. The overlook offers views of the surrounding canyon and mountain peaks.
• Toroweap Overlook: This viewpoint provides unbeatable views of the Colorado River far below in the Grand Canyon. Toroweap Overlook is one of the lowest viewpoints inside the Grand Canyon, just 3,000 feet above the Colorado River. To reach this beautiful view for sunset, you’ll need to drive about 60 miles down an unpaved dirt road in a high-clearance vehicle – it’s a serious commitment!
• Cape Royal: This is one of the best places to see sunset at the North Rim, with incredible panoramic canyon views. Cape Royal is the southernmost viewpoint along the North Rim, providing views from the Walhalla Plateau of the expansive canyon below.

Map of the Best Views in Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim

Visualizing your itinerary before setting out for your trip is always helpful. Below you’ll find a map of all the Grand Canyon South Rim viewpoints listed in this post, categorized by color:

• Grand Canyon Village viewpoints are shown in Blue
• Hermit’s Rest viewpoints are displayed in Red
• Desert View Drive viewpoints are in Orange

You can click on the image below or follow this link to the live map to click and scroll to learn more about each viewpoint!

Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon

The best time to visit Grand Canyon National Park is Spring or Fall. The weather is more pleasant during these months, and crowds are fewer than in the peak summer months. The best months to visit are April to mid-May or September.

The Grand Canyon South Rim is open year-round, while the North Rim is only open seasonally in the summer and fall.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during each season at the Grand Canyon South Rim:

• Spring: Mid-to-late Spring is a pleasant time to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Daytime temperatures typically average in the 60s during the spring at the South Rim, but nighttime temperatures are frequently below freezing. Hermit’s Rest Road closes to private vehicles on March 1, so springtime visitors should plan to take the free shuttle to those viewpoints.
• Summer: Busy season lasts between Memorial Day and Labor Day, with nearly 20,000 visitors to the park each day. In addition to the crowds, temperatures are HOT, coming in with daytime highs along the rim in the 80s and climbing to above 100 degrees in the canyon. Hiking this time of year can be dangerous due to the high temperatures and limited access to water. Hermit’s Rest Road is closed to private vehicles during the summer, so all visitors should plan to make use of the free shuttle instead.
• Fall: After Labor Day, crowds decrease, and temperatures drop too. Expect daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s and overnight temperatures in the 30s or 40s. Fall is an excellent time of year for hiking in the Grand Canyon! Hermit’s Rest Road re-opens to private vehicles after November 30.
• Winter: Winter is the least busy time in the Grand Canyon, with cold, snowy weather for much of the season. Expect daytime temperatures in the 40s and overnight lows in the teens. However, there’s nothing more beautiful than exploring the snowy canyon with limited crowds!

Before planning your trip, check the park’s official website for the most up-to-date information on road and trail conditions, weather forecasts, and any closures or restrictions.

Where to Stay Near the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim

Unlike many other national parks, Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim has many places to stay, from luxury lodges to rustic motels to campgrounds. Staying inside the park minimizes your driving time and is ultra-convenient for taking the park shuttle from spring to fall.

However, staying outside the park in nearby towns like Tusayan, Grand Canyon Junction, or Williams offers more budget-friendly options. 

This post covers where to stay at a high level, but check out this ultimate guide on the Best Places to Stay in Grand Canyon National Park for a deep dive!

This interactive map can help you search all the available hotels and rental properties near the Grand Canyon South Rim! Simply scroll and click the map below to see what is available.

There are six lodges located along the South Rim in Grand Canyon National Park:

• El Tovar Hotel is the oldest Grand Canyon National Park hotel steeped in history, operating since 1905. The hotel offers a fine dining room, gift shop, lounge, and luxurious lodge rooms.
• Bright Angel Lodge is a Registered National Historic Landmark with beautiful designs by Mary E.J. Colter. The hotel offers a mix of lodge rooms and rustic cabins along the Rim Trail, with several on-site restaurants and bars.
• Thunderbird Lodge sits along the Rim Trail overlooking the South Rim with updated hotel rooms and is within walking distance of many Grand Canyon Village viewpoints.
• Kachina Lodge is one of the more budget-friendly lodges directly along the South Rim, with three on-site restaurants only steps from the Rim Trail.
• Maswik Lodge is newly renovated and is one of the more budget-friendly options inside the park, with two onsite restaurants tucked away from the rim in a wooded area near the Grand Canyon Backcountry Information Center.
• Yavapai Lodge is another more budget-friendly option for staying in the park. This lodge is near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and offers updated rooms and two onsite restaurants.

In addition, you’ll find three campgrounds at the South Rim:

• Mather Campground offers 327 reservable campsites and is open year-round. Amenities include flush toilets, fire pits, and drinking water.
• Trailer Village has campsites for RVs up to 50 feet long and is open year-round. Amenities include hookups, dump stations, drinking water, laundry, and shower facilities.
• Desert View Campground offers 49 reservable campsites near Desert View Watchtower and is open seasonally from April to October. Amenities include flush toilets, fire pits, and drinking water.

If you want to stay outside the park, opt for one of these hotels in nearby Tusayan. The National Park Service runs the Tusayan Purple Route shuttle throughout the town, directly into the park, connecting you to the rest of the park’s shuttles.

• The Grand Hotel is a 4-star hotel with an indoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and high-end hotel rooms. The shuttle picks up directly at the hotel before heading into the park.
• Best Western Squire Resort at the Grand Canyon is a pet-friendly 3.5-star hotel with two on-site restaurants, pools, an arcade, and bowling for a truly amenity-filled vacation. The shuttle picks up directly at the hotel. No need to walk to a shuttle stop!
• Red Feather Lodge is an updated 3-star hotel with an on-site restaurant, pool, and gym. Guests can walk across the street to Big E Steakhouse & Saloon to catch the shuttle into the park.
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Canyon is a popular chain 3-star hotel with reliable quality rooms, a pool, complimentary breakfast, and free WiFi. Guests can walk across the street to The Grand Hotel to catch the shuttle into the park.
• Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel is a pet-friendly 3-star hotel with an on-site restaurant, pool, and free WiFi. Guests can walk next door to the Grand Canyon IMAX Theater to catch the shuttle into the park.

For a unique stay, these two “glamping” options in Grand Canyon Junction provide a unique mix of luxury and outdoor adventure: 

• Under Canvas Grand Canyon boasts 3-star accommodations in luxury canvas tents, including options for both shared and private bathrooms and an on-site restaurant.
• Clear Sky Resorts offers luxurious, air-conditioned futuristic domes with an on-site restaurant, bar, and many amenities.

Tips for Visiting the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim

• Get the America the Beautiful National Park Pass. If you plan on visiting other national parks in the next 12 months, you’ll save money with a national park pass. Get the America the Beautiful Pass for only $80.
• Start your day early. Crowds and temperatures peak between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The viewpoints are typically less crowded in the early morning, right after sunrise, and crowds peak around midday. If you plan on doing any hiking, get started shortly after sunrise before the trails get hot and busy.
• Take the free park shuttle. Parking is a nightmare at the Grand Canyon South Rim. Rather than trying to drive yourself, make use of the free shuttle. Four routes along the South Rim connect every central point of interest (except Desert View Drive). There’s even a shuttle route to Tusayan for those outside the park!
• Dress in layers.  It is typically 10-20 degrees cooler along the rim than in the canyon. If you’ll be hiking down into the canyon, you’ll want to be able to shed layers as the day heats up. 

Looking for more tips on what to pack for your trip? Check out my guides on the best hiking gear, what to pack for a road trip, and essential camping gear for all my favorite gear picks and tips to make packing for your trip a breeze!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Grand Canyon Viewpoints

How many viewpoints are on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon?

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon has about 50 named viewpoints that provide varying views into and surrounding the canyon. However, of these designated viewpoints, the most popular ones are located along Desert View Drive, Grand Canyon Village, and Hermit’s Rest Road.

Which rim of the Grand Canyon has the best views?

The Grand Canyon South Rim has the best views and is the most visited part of Grand Canyon National Park. Various viewpoints are scattered along the rim, providing varying panoramic views of this natural wonder. The South Rim is the best rim for first-time visitors.

What is the most popular view of the Grand Canyon?

The most popular viewpoint in the Grand Canyon is Mather Point. This easily accessible overlook is only a short walk from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and offers a shuttle stop nearby. Mather Point is famous for sunrise and sunset over the South Rim.

Where is the most spectacular view of the Grand Canyon?

If you’re looking for a viewpoint that will impress you, don’t miss the spectacular view at Hopi Point! This unobstructed, panoramic viewpoint along Hermit’s Rest Road is one of the best places in the park to see the sunset (sunrise is incredible, too, though!)

What is the best place to view the Grand Canyon on the South Rim?

The best view of the Grand Canyon along the South Rim is at Navajo Point. This overlook is the highest viewpoint along the South Rim at 7,461 feet. This towering vantage point offers excellent panoramic canyon views along Desert View Drive.

What is the highest overlook in the Grand Canyon?

Point Imperial is the highest overlook in the Grand Canyon, located along the North Rim at 8,803 feet above sea level. However, if you’re looking for the highest lookout along the Grand Canyon South Rim, that would be Navajo Point along Desert View Drive.

Can you drive to Grand Canyon viewpoints?

The only Grand Canyon viewpoints accessible by vehicle during the peak season are along Desert View Drive. The viewpoints in Grand Canyon Village are most accessible by foot along the South Rim Trail, and the Hermit’s Rest Road viewpoints are accessible by shuttle from March to November and by private vehicle in winter only.

Which state has the best view of the Grand Canyon?

While the Grand Canyon borders or passes through several states, including Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Colorado, the best views of the Grand Canyon are found in Arizona. The South Rim is the most accessible part of this natural wonder in northern Arizona.

Final Thoughts on the Best Grand Canyon Views

There’s no shortage of incredible views in Grand Canyon National Park. However, if you’re short on time, I recommend checking out this list of prioritized viewpoints along the South Rim.

These are the top 10 best viewpoints at the Grand Canyon South Rim:

1. Mather Point
2. Yavapai Point
3. Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio
4. Powell Point
5. Hopi Point
6. Mohave Point
7. Pima Point
8. Desert View Watchtower
9. Moran Point
10. Ooh Ahh Point

Are you looking for more ideas for your trip to the Grand Canyon? Don’t miss these posts!

• Itinerary: One Day at the Grand Canyon South Rim
• Top Rated: 22 Things to Do at the Grand Canyon
• Where to Stay: Best Places to Stay at the Grand Canyon
• Nearby Parks: 19 Best National Parks Near Las Vegas
• Road Trip: Grand Canyon and Zion Road Trip Itinerary

Are you planning a national park trip but don’t know where to start? Get my free 28-page national park ebook where I break down everything you need to know to visit all 63 USA national parks.

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