South Rim: accessible and busy

Roughly nine in ten park visitors go to the South Rim. It has the most viewpoints, lodging, dining and tour options, and it is reachable year-round from Flagstaff, Williams, Tusayan and Phoenix.

North Rim: high, remote and seasonal

The North Rim is cooler, greener and much quieter, with forests of ponderosa pine, aspen and spruce. Point Imperial, Cape Royal and Bright Angel Point are the signature viewpoints. Because of the elevation, the road and services close in winter.

In 2025 a wildfire caused significant damage to facilities at the North Rim. Always check the official National Park Service website for current access and services before you plan a North Rim visit.

Getting there

Most North Rim trips start from Kanab, Utah, Page or Las Vegas. South Rim trips usually start from Las Vegas, Phoenix, Sedona, Flagstaff or Williams. Doing both rims in one trip works best with at least three days.