Grand Canyon South Rim - Classic 1-Day
A ranger-paced South Rim day with sunrise, a rim walk, a short below-rim hike, Desert View Drive, and a sunset finish.
Unscheduled
Sunrise at Mather Point
One of the most accessible and spectacular sunrise viewpoints on the South Rim. Watch the canyon walls transform from shadow to brilliant red and orange.
Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunrise. Bring a headlamp for the short walk from parking. Mornings are cold even in summer.
Breakfast at Grand Canyon Village
Breakfast at El Tovar (upscale) or Bright Angel Lodge (casual). Both have canyon views.
El Tovar requires reservations. Bright Angel Lodge is first-come-first-served. Refill water before hiking.
Bright Angel Trail
Hike 1.5 miles down to First Tunnel or 3 miles to Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse. Remember: what goes down must come up!
Bring at least 1 liter of water per person. Start early to avoid heat and turn around by late morning in summer. The hike out takes roughly twice as long as going down.
Lunch Break
Refuel after your hike. Arizona Room, Canyon Village Deli, or pack a picnic.
Eat in the shade and hydrate. Electrolytes help after the climb.
Rim Trail Walk
Walk the paved Rim Trail from Mather Point to Yavapai Point (2.5 miles). Stunning views the entire way with interpretive signs.
Mostly flat and paved. Great for all fitness levels. Use the shuttle to return and refill water at Yavapai.
Desert View Watchtower
Drive the scenic Desert View Drive to this historic 70-foot stone tower designed by Mary Colter. Climb for 360-degree views.
25-mile drive from Grand Canyon Village. Worth it for river views and the tower; allow 45-60 minutes of driving each way.
Sunset at Hopi Point
The most popular sunset viewpoint on the South Rim with panoramic views. Watch the canyon transform through golden hour.
Arrive 45-60 minutes early for parking and good viewing spots. Accessible by Hermit Road shuttle (spring-fall) or private vehicle (winter).