Introduction
The Grand Canyon is one of those places where, no matter how many photos and films you've seen, you'll still be left open-mouthed when you see it in person. The vastness and beauty of it are hard to describe. But planning a trip to such a giant place can be a bit overwhelming. So we've put together a simple, no-nonsense 3-day itinerary to help you focus on what really matters, without rushing and with time to soak up the landscape.
Day 1: Arrival and First Impact at the South Rim
Day one is for arriving, settling in and getting your first contact with the main star: the canyon. The South Rim is the most accessible and best-equipped, so that's where we'll concentrate.
Start by heading to Mather Point. It's one of the most famous viewpoints and your first sight of the Grand Canyon. Yes, it'll be packed, but the view is worth it. Then, to escape the crowd a bit, walk part of the Rim Trail, the path that runs along the canyon edge. You can walk as far as you like and stop at the various viewpoints. The park shuttle bus also runs along this route, so you can alternate between walking and the bus.
In the late afternoon, head over to the Hopi Point area to watch the sunset. It's a classic and for good reason. The colours of the canyon shifting as the sun goes down is a spectacle you won't forget.
Day 2: Adventure Inside the Canyon
Today is the day to feel the canyon up close. No, you don't need to be an athlete to descend to the Colorado River, but a short hike into the canyon gives you a completely different perspective.
The Bright Angel Trail and the South Kaibab Trail are the most popular trails. Our suggestion is to descend a bit on one of them, maybe for an hour or two, then climb back up. Remember that the climb up always feels harder than the way down. Take plenty of water and snacks, and don't push yourself beyond your limits.
If walking isn't your thing, there are other options. A mule ride is a classic Grand Canyon experience, but it needs to be booked well in advance. Another alternative is to explore Hermit Road, a scenic road with several fantastic viewpoints, which for most of the year is only accessible via the park's free shuttle bus.
Day 3: Culture, Final Views and Farewell
On the last day, we'll explore the easternmost part of the South Rim. Desert View Drive is a road of about 40 km that takes you to the eastern exit of the park, with several points of interest along the way.
The must-stop is the Desert View Watchtower, a stone tower built in the 1930s, with incredible views and murals inside that tell the stories of the region's native peoples. Nearby, you can also visit the Tusayan Museum and Ruin to learn more about the history of the first inhabitants of this area.
Stop at the viewpoints along the road, like Moran Point or Grandview Point, to say goodbye to the Grand Canyon from different perspectives. Each stop offers a new light, a new colour, a new rock formation to admire.
What you should know before you go
- Altitude: The South Rim is at over 2,000 metres. You may feel more tired and short of breath. Drink plenty of water and take it easy in the first few days.
- Climate: The weather at the Grand Canyon can change quickly. In summer it's very hot during the day and can cool down a lot at night. In winter, it can snow. Go prepared for everything.
- Reservations: If you want to stay inside the park, book accommodation many months in advance. It's the most practical option, but also the most in demand.
Where Multipark fits in
We know that planning a trip like this can come with its challenges, especially when it comes to parking and logistics. Although the Grand Canyon has a good shuttle system, having your own car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. If your adventure starts or ends in a nearby city, like Las Vegas or Phoenix, remember that Multipark is there to help you find the best parking, so you can leave your car safely while you explore other stops on your road trip.
Conclusion
Three days at the Grand Canyon is the perfect amount of time to feel the magic of the place without rushing. This itinerary is just a suggestion, a starting point. The most important thing is to let yourself be carried away by the grandeur of the landscape and to enjoy every moment. Safe travels!
Planning a road trip? Plan your parking with Multipark and travel without worries.
