Grand Canyon South Rim - 2-Day Complete
A complete South Rim experience with sunrise and sunset, rim trails, a below-rim hike, and the Desert View Drive. Built around shuttle logistics, water planning, and the best light windows.
Unscheduled
Sunrise at Mather Point
The most popular and accessible sunrise location. Worth doing even if you watched sunset.
Arrive 30 minutes early for a front-row spot. Canyon colors are different at sunrise vs sunset.
Sunrise at Yavapai Point
Watch sunrise from Yavapai Observation Station. The geology museum opens at 8am with spectacular canyon views through floor-to-ceiling windows.
Less crowded than Mather Point. Arrive 30-45 minutes early and stay for the geology exhibits.
Bright Angel Trail to Havasupai Gardens
9.2-mile roundtrip hike to the Havasupai Gardens oasis. Challenging but rewarding for fit hikers.
Start early to avoid heat. Bring 3+ liters of water. Resthouses at 1.5 and 3 miles. Turn back if needed; the climb out is the hardest part.
Breakfast & Visitor Center
Grab breakfast, watch the park film, and get oriented with ranger recommendations.
The 20-minute park film is excellent for context. Check shuttle status and trail water advisories.
South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point
Hike 1.8 miles roundtrip to Ooh Aah Point for panoramic canyon views.
No water on this trail. Start early and bring more than you think. Use the shuttle to the trailhead; parking is limited.
Lunch at Yavapai Lodge
Casual dining at Yavapai Lodge Restaurant or grab-and-go at the adjacent tavern.
Less crowded than El Tovar. Refill water and electrolytes before the afternoon.
Late Lunch & Rest
Recover from your hike with a substantial meal. El Tovar or Bright Angel Lodge.
You earned a good meal. Keep hydrating and replace electrolytes.
Hermit Road Viewpoints
Take the free shuttle along Hermit Road stopping at Powell Point, Mohave Point, and The Abyss. Each offers unique perspectives.
Hermit Road is shuttle-only most of the year. Plan 2-3 hours with short walks between viewpoints.
Desert View Drive
25-mile scenic drive with multiple viewpoints. Stop at Grandview Point, Lipan Point, and Desert View Watchtower.
Lipan Point has the best Colorado River views. Watchtower is worth the climb; expect stairs.
Sunset at Hopi Point
Classic sunset spot with panoramic views. Arrive early for good positioning.
Most popular sunset spot - expect crowds. Mohave Point is a strong backup with similar views.
Final Sunset at Desert View
Different perspective for sunset - looking out over the Painted Desert and Marble Canyon.
Less crowded than west-end viewpoints. The return drive after dark is slow; watch for wildlife.