Grand Canyon National Park 3 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Sunset at the South Rim
- Arrive at Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim in the morning
- Visit the Grand Canyon Village to get an overview of the park and plan your trip
- Take a shuttle bus or drive along Desert View Drive (Hwy 64) to Mather Point for stunning views of the canyon at sunset
- Stop by the Grand Canyon Visitor Center to pick up maps, brochures, and get information on activities and trails
Day 2: Explore the South Rim’s Trails and Scenic Views
- Start the day with a hearty breakfast at one of the park’s restaurants or cafes
- Hike down into the canyon on the Bright Angel Trail or take a shuttle bus to Yavapai Point for panoramic views
- Visit the Grand Canyon Railway and Museum to learn about the park’s history and the historic train that runs along the rim
- Watch the sunset at Hopi Point, one of the most popular viewpoints in the park
Day 3: Visit the North Rim (optional) or Explore the South Rim’s Backcountry
- Take a shuttle bus or drive north to the Grand Canyon North Rim (open seasonally from mid-May to mid-October)
- Hike the North Kaibab Trail, one of the most scenic trails in the park
- Alternatively, explore the South Rim’s backcountry by hiking the Tonto Platform or taking a guided mule ride
- Enjoy a picnic lunch with views of the canyon and watch the sunset at the Grand Canyon Railway’s Sunset Viewpoint