12 things you need to know before visiting Grand Canyon National Park

30.03.2024 - 19:19 / lonelyplanet.com

Bigger than the US state of Rhode Island and large enough to influence the weather, Grand Canyon National Park can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.

Millions make a special effort to visit the park each year but some don't account for the blistering desert heat, sporadic monsoons, trail safety along a whopping 595 miles of hiking routes, or the need to reserve accommodations ahead of time. 

To make your trip successful, you need to get the little things right. Here's everything you need to know before embarking on an adventure to Grand Canyon National Park.

Narrow down those hiking options with our guide to the 5 best routes in the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon National Park is the second most-visited national park in the USA, attracting nearly 6 million people annually. Peak hours are 10am to 4pm, which means busier trails and packed attractions, particularly in Grand Canyon Village. For a more tranquil adventure, either start early or late. Those who opt for a later-in-the-day schedule should prioritize a sunset at the likes of Pima Point, Mohave Point, or Hopi Point.

While the South Rim Trail is well-paved and provides some 13 miles of canyon vistas, sometimes you need a reprieve. The park runs a free shuttle bus that stops at many of the major sights, from the Hermits Rest in the west all the way to Yaki Point in the east. 

The shuttle also stops at some of the canyon’s most popular lodging destinations, too – including Maswik Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, and Yavapai Lodge – making it a seamless, car-free way to get around.

Whether staying at a Grand Canyon Village hotel, like Thunderbird Lodge or Kachina Lodge, or deep within the canyon at Phantom Ranch, you’ll need to book well in advance. Reservations for in-park options typically open six months ahead of time and they are snatched up quickly. The Grand Canyon National Park Lodges website is the central hub for all park lodge reservations.

If you’re camping overnight in Grand Canyon National Park, you’ll likely need a backcountry permit. These cost $10 per permit, plus $12 per night and can be applied for in an online lottery. The exceptions include stays at Mather Campground and Desert View Campground, plus mid-May to mid-October stays at the North Rim Campground.

Leashed dogs are welcome to take in the canyon vistas above the rim – but that’s it. No pets are permitted into the canyon itself, including hiking trails. The rules are strictly enforced, too. So, if you’re planning to hit the Grandview Trail or a journey to Ooh Aah Point, avoid a headache and leave your four-legged friends at home.

Ready to go? Here are the best times to visit the Grand Canyon

There are four parking lots at the South Rim Visitor Center Plaza, the starting point for