Grand Canyon south rim day trip for the family
Heading out on a family day trip to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon should be an unforgettable experience. In this blog post, I will guide you through one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural landmarks and help you make the most of your family vacation at the South Rim. The Grand Canyon is one of the world's seven natural wonders, so it shouldn't be missed if you have the chance.
Welcome to the Babymoon series! This group of blog posts chronicles a road trip that my then-partner (now husband) and I took in September of 2021. We left from our home in Philadelphia with our Great Dane, Lars, and pop-up camper in tow. I was seven months pregnant with our first son, Arlo. From Philly, we drove straight to Utah to see as many national and state parks as possible in two weeks. Halfway through, we decided to go even further to Joshua Tree to visit friends. After hitting a few destinations on the way back, including one of my favorites of the trip, White Sands, we landed back in Philly. Although my pregnant belly was somehow twice the size as when we left and I was exhausted, the places we saw were stunning and memorable. I’m exited to share each destination with you as I go through the trip's timeline. If you’d like to see an overview just click on the “babymoon” tag in red at the bottom of each post.
Cost
A Grand Canyon National Park Vehicle Permit can be purchased for 35$ ($30 for motorcycles). America the Beautiful is also excepted, which is ideal if you’re planning to visit three or more national parks that except the pass. If you’re cycling in or taking the train, an individual pass will cost $20.
Free National Parks dates for 2023:
January 16: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
April 15: National Park Week
August 4: Great American Outdoors Act
September 24: National Public Lands Day
November 11: Veterans Day
Accessibility
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is easily accessible from various entry points. If you're flying into the area, the closest major airport is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, about a 4-hour drive away, and Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, about 4.5 hours. Renting a car or utilizing shuttle services are always good options, but most people choose to visit as part of a road trip like we did. Whichever you choose, you shouldn't have any trouble navigating the area. I was surprised by how easy it was to just drive from viewpoint to viewpoint, making a day trip very possible.
The nice thing about a day trip to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is that all the roads are paved and well-maintained. Each viewpoint has a parking lot, and most have restrooms, making it easy to get in and out. You'll follow the road as it takes you to each viewpoint, marvel at the views, take some pictures, and then you're on your way.
You'll most likely be experiencing Mather Point first, which is located near the visitor center. Other notable viewpoints include Yavapai Point, Hopi Point, and Desert View Watchtower. Each one offers a very different perspective of the canyon but is equally beautiful.
Visitor centers
The Grand Canyon visitor center is a great way to get all the necessary info before you head to all the locations, and the Yavapai Geology Museum (located on Village Loop Road between the Visitor Center and Market Plaza) will help you learn about the park's natural history and geology. These centers offer informative exhibits, educational displays, and knowledgeable park rangers who can answer your questions. They're also great places to learn about the park's flora, fauna, and cultural significance.
Family Friendly Hikes
Hiking in the Grand Canyon can be an amazing experience for the whole family, but it's essential to choose trails suitable for your group's abilities and fitness levels. The Rim Trail is a great option, providing easy, level paths with stunning panoramic views. For a more challenging but rewarding hike, consider the South Kaibab Trail or the Bright Angel Trail, both leading to the canyon's bottom.
We opted to just stick with the vistas as we had our dog with us, however, we were never disappointed by the views.
Accommodations
The South Rim offers a range of accommodations catering to different budgets and preferences. The Grand Canyon Village is a popular choice, providing easy access to the rim and visitor facilities.
We stayed at the Williams KOA Journey, which is about an hour's drive from the visitor center. It had everything we needed for our camper, with electric and water hookups as well as restroom facilities.
Consider booking accommodations well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best options for your family.
Sunrise and Sunset
The South Rim is known for its captivating sunrises and sunsets, painting the canyon in vivid hues. Set aside time to witness these magical moments. Desert View and Yaki Point are popular spots for capturing stunning sunrise views, while Hopi Point and Mohave Point offer exceptional sunset vistas. Remember to arrive early, as these locations can get crowded.
Dogs
While the Grand Canyon National Park has strict pet regulations, there are a few trails at the South Rim where leashed dogs are permitted. Here are two trails that allow dogs:
The Rim Trail stretches for about 13 miles along the South Rim. Leashed dogs are allowed on the paved sections of the trail. The trail offers stunning canyon views and easy access to various viewpoints and amenities.
Greenway Trail extends for about 7 miles, connecting the town of Tusayan to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, and leashed dogs are welcome.
It's important to note that dogs must be kept on a leash (maximum length of 6 feet) at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Dogs are not allowed below the rim, on shuttle buses, or in park buildings, including visitor centers and lodges.
Remember to check the Grand Canyon National Park's official website or contact park authorities for the most up-to-date information on pet regulations and trail access, as rules and guidelines may be subject to change.
Wildlife
If the spectacular views weren’t enough, one of the coolest things you have a good chance of coming across is the wildlife. The South Rim is home to an array of wildlife, ranging from small mammals to majestic birds and reptiles. Some of the animals include bighorn sheep, elk, deer, and antelope. We observed some right off the side of the road as we were leaving one of the viewpoints. The sun was setting, so I was able to capture a few photos while the light poured in through the trees.
Remember, wildlife should be observed from a safe distance and should never be fed or approached. Respecting their natural behavior and habitat is essential for their well-being and the preservation of the ecosystem.
Safety
Safety should be a top priority while exploring the Grand Canyon. Stay on designated trails, maintain a safe distance from the rim's edge, and keep a watchful eye on kids and pets at all times. Pack ample water, sunscreen, hats, and sturdy footwear for your hikes. Be aware of your limits, and don't overexert yourself in the high-altitude environment.
Remember to plan ahead, make necessary arrangements, and respect the rules and guidelines of the National Park Service to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
If you’d like to read about our Babymoon trip from the beginning start with An Afternoon in Canyonlands and Deadhorse.
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