The Grand Canyon is visited by approximately 5 million people each year. The park consists of 277 miles of the Colorado River and its massive erosional effects on the surrounding landscape. The Grand Canyon can be enjoyed from either the south or the north rims.
Looking for a hotel near the Grand Canyon? Check rates here
Getting to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas:
The Grand Canyon is located about 250 miles from Las Vegas. Taking highway 93 south from Las Vegas to Interstate 40 east to highway 64. The trip takes about 4 1/2 hours and takes you right over Hoover Dam.
If you are considering a tour in Las Vegas check out some prices with Best of Vegasand see if you can possibly save a few dollars before you get into town.
What to do at the Grand Canyon?:
Visit Grand Canyon Village to get oriented with the National Park. The visitors center is located in the village and offers lectures, videos and rangers to assist you. From the Village you can get on the Bright Angel Trail which will take you to the bottom of the canyon. You should realize that it is a good 9 miles to the bottom.
East Rim of the Grand Canyon Drive:
The drive along the East Rim takes you past Yaki point, Grandview Point and gets you to the Tusayan Ruin Museum. It is a 25 mile drive that will give you a good look at some ruins of a population of pueblo Indians that lived in this location around the 13th century. You can witness the widest point in the canyon as well as buy Native American artifacts on the drive.
Tours:
There are numerous tour groups out of Las Vegas that lead trips to the Grand Canyon. Take a look at the "off the strip" page to get an idea of what is offered.
Check prices on Grand Canyon Tours from Las vegas with Best of Vegas. DO some research and try to find a good price before you get into town, that could save you some money.
Rent a car to the Grand Canyon:
Check rates for a car rental
See a map of the Grand Canyon:
See a map of the Grand Canyon
Need a Las Vegas vacation? Check room prices before you book. A little research could save you a lot of money. If you are looking for a package deal to Las Vegas make sure to check more than one place for the best deal.
Why go to the Grand Canyon?:
I have talked to people who have said that the drive was well worth it. In a few hours drive you can see a very large hole in the ground. You drive directly over the Hoover Dam and take a very scenic route through the desert. While I do not advise getting there and then attempting to hike to the bottom of the canyon, you can take a brisk walk about a quarter of the way down and take in the great views of the expansive canyon.
If you have an extra day and you want to see a national landmark this is a good trip. The summer time will bring the crowds and pleasant temperatures. Peak season is May through November.
The Grand Canyon is a geologist dream, where rock that is a billion years old is exposed through weathering and erosion.
