Grand Canyon National Park South Rim

The Grand Canyon National Park South Rim is located in Northern Arizona and is one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World. Make your next visit to the Grand Canyon memorable and simple using the information on this page, including Discounts with Boarding Pass Partners, Park Pass Information, Maps and Itineraries, Stories about the Grand Canyon, and more.

Grand Canyon Boarding Pass Partners

Receive discounts and special offers from the Grand Canyon Boarding Pass Partners below.
View Boarding Pass Partners for all Northern Arizona here. 

Grand Canyon: Getting There-Getting Around

Find the most important information about the Grand Canyon right here, including answers to the most common questions.

The Grand Canyon National Park South Rim is located in Northern Arizona and there are 2 Entrance Gates, the South Entrance and the East Entrance.

If you are travelling from points South (Las Vegas, Williams, Flagstaff, Sedona, Phoenix, etc..) you will use the South Entrance.

If you are travelling from points north (Utah, Page, etc…) you will use the East Entrance. 

Alburquerque, NM      410 miles       Google Map

Flagstaff, AZ                 82 miles        Google Map

Kingman, AZ                168 miles       Google Map

Las Vegas, NV              275 miles       Google Map

Los Angeles, CA          486 miles        Google Map

Phoenix, AZ                 224 miles       Google Map

Sedona, AZ                 113 miles        Google Map

Williams, AZ                 55 miles         Google Map

Page, AZ                          135 miles       Google Map

Bryce Canyon, UT            289 miles      Google Map

Zion National Park, UT     228 Miles     Google Map

The National Park Service provides an excellent Shuttle Bus System inside the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim. This Shuttle System is FREE to visitors inside the park. The Shuttle System is a great way to visit many viewpoints along the South Rim, and helps to reduce parking and traffic congestion.

There are no shuttles that go east of Yaki Point on Desert View Drive, so if you want to visit the amazing viewpoints past that point, consider a Buck Wild Hummer Tour that visits several viewpoints along Desert View Drive including Pipe Creek Vista, Duck on a Rock, Grandview and Moran.

There are 4 Main Grand Canyon Shuttle Bus Routes at the South Rim. Click the Route Name to view more detailed information from the National Park Service.

Village Blue Route:

This Shuttle Bus Route operates year round, see image below for the shuttle stops. Click the image for details from the National Park Service about this Shuttle Route

Kaibab Rim Orange Route

The Kaibab Orange Shuttle Bus Loop operates year round, see images below for the shuttle stops. Click the image for details from the National Park Service about this Shuttle Route

Hermits Rest Red Route

The Hermits Rest Shuttle Bus operates seasonally, March through November. NO private vehicles are permitted on Hermits Rest Road March – November. This shuttle does NOT operate in December, January or February, and private vehicles ARE allowed during those months. Click the image for details from the National Park Service about this Shuttle Route.

Tusayan Purple Route

The Tusayan Purple Route operates seasonally, generally Memorial Weekend through Labor Day Weekend,  and provides Shuttle Service between the Town of Tusayan and the main Shuttle Bus Hub at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center. A Park Pass is required to board the Tusayan Shuttle Bus into the park. Click the image for details from the National Park Service about this Shuttle Route

Uber and Lyft are not available in this area. Grand Canyon Taxi offers service 24 hours a day, with service inside the park and to and from the Town of Tusayan, 928-638-2631.

Groom Transportation offers round trip service between Flagstaff, Williams and the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim. 

Park Passes and Entry Fees

Every person aged 16 and older needs to purchase a Park Entry Pass. Effective January 1, 2026, there are different Park Entry Fees for U.S. Residents, and Non U.S. Residents. There is no entry fee for children ages 15 and younger. 

America the Beautiful Annual Pass

$ 80
  • Available for U.S. Residents & Citizens
  • Valid ID Required for Purchase
  • Covers entrance & standard amenity (day-use) fees at thousands of federal recreation locations
  • Valid for 12 months, from purchase date through end of the same month in the following year
  • For locations or areas that charge fees per vehicle, the Resident Annual Pass admits the pass holder and passengers in one non-commercial vehicle, or up to two motorcycles.
  • For locations or areas that charge fees per person, the Resident Annual Pass admits the pass holder plus 3 adults (16 and older), not to exceed 4 adults.

Standard Vehicle Entrance Pass

$ 35
  • Covers the entrance fee for all adults in a single, Non Commercial Vehicle, up to 15 passengers
  • Valid for 7 days from date of purchase
  • Valid at the Grand Canon National Park ONLY

America the Beautiful Annual Pass

$ 250
  • Available for anyone who may have Non Residents in their vehicle.
  • Covers entrance & standard amenity (day-use) fees at thousands of federal recreation locations
  • Valid for 12 months, from purchase date through end of the same month in the following year
  • For locations or areas that charge fees per vehicle, the Non Resident Annual Pass admits the pass holder and passengers in one non-commercial vehicle, or up to two motorcycles.
  • For locations or areas that charge fees per person, the Non Resident Annual Pass admits the pass holder plus 3 adults (16 and older), not to exceed 4 adults.

Non U.S Resident Pass

$ 100
  • Covers the entrance fee for ONE NON US Resident (aged 16 and older) to the Grand Canyon National Park.
  • Valid for 7 days from date of purchase
  • Valid at the Grand Canon National Park ONLY
  • Non Residents must ALSO purchase the $35 Vehicle Entrance Pass.
  • If you purchase the $250 Non Resident America the Beautiful Pass, you do NOT need to purchase the $100 per person pass

Standard Entrance Pass

$ 35
  • Required Vehicle Entrance Fee
  • Valid for all passengers in ONE Non Commercial Vehicle
  • Valid for 7 days from date of purchase
  • Valid at the Grand Canon National Park ONLY
  • Non Residents must ALSO purchase a $100 Non Resident Pass per adult (ages 16 and older)
  • If you purchase the $250 Non Resident America the Beautiful Pass, you do NOT need to purchase this Vehicle Entrance Pass.

You can purchase these Park Passes at Buck Wild Hummer Tours 469 AZ-64 Tusayan, AZ 86023:

  • US Resident America the Beautiful Annual Pass
  • NON US Resident America the Beautiful Annual Pass
  • $35 Grand Canyon Vehicle Entrance Pass. 
  • Buck Wild is located in the Town of Tusayan, which is the closest town to the Grand Canyon National Park South Entrance.
  • You can pre-order Park Passes to be picked up at Buck Wild during regular business hours.  
  • If you are arriving at the Grand Canyon outside of Buck Wild’s regular business hours, you can find more information about purchasing Park Passes here

Viewpoints & Points of Interest

There are over 24 different viewpoints at the Grand Canyon South Rim. Want to take the guesswork out of which viewpoints to visit? Book a Buck Wild Grand Canyon Hummer Tour and let the professional guides take you to the best viewpoints and keep you away from the crowds! 

The viewpoints along Desert View Drive provide some of the most amazing scenic views at the Grand Canyon South Rim National Park. The only viewpoint on Desert View Drive  that can be accessed by the Grand Canyon Shuttle (Orange Route) is Pipe Creek Vista. To visit the other viewpoints, you will need to drive yourself, or book a Buck Wild Grand Canyon Hummer Tour!

Pipe Creek Vista
First stop on Desert View Drive when heading east. Scenic overlook where Pipe Creek meets the Colorado River.
Google Map
Duck on a Rock
Rock Formation resembles a duck resting on a nest. A quick, wheelchair‑friendly stop along Desert View Drive
Google Map
Grandview Point
One of the widest panoramas on the South Rim, excellent view of the Colorado River and Horseshoe Mesa.
Google Map
Moran Point
Provides Panoramic Canyon views and unobstructed views of the Colorado River. Popular Sunset viewpoint.
Google Map
Tusayan Ruins
Ancestral Pueblo village that was physically occupied approximately 800 years ago
Google Map
Lipan Point
Excellent views of spires, buttes, and temple formations that resemble ancient pyramids. Look down to the mighty Colorado River below
Google Map
Navajo Point
Amazing views of the Colorado River, Desert View Watchtower and the Painted Desert. Popular for Sunrise and Sunset visits.
Google Map
Desert View Watchtower
Iconic structure visible for miles, it is recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
Google Map

The viewpoints and points of interest in the Central-Village Area are accessible via the Blue Shuttle Route, or by driving yourself and parking at the different stops. Want to learn more about the history of the Grand Canyon? Book a Buck Wild Grand Canyon Hummer Tour to learn from the local, professional guides. 

Mather Point
Offers expansive views of the canyon in all directions, including the Colorado River and Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon. .
Google Map
Visitor Center
Trip Planning & Hiking Info via exhibits/sidewalk signs. GC Conservancy Store with Grand Canyon Passport Stamps, Junior Ranger Programs, Ranger Special Programs. Shuttle Bus Hub located here.
Google Map
Yavapai Point and Geology Museum
Known for spectacular panoramic, 360-degree views, including views of the Bright Angel Canyon, Havasupai Gardens, and the Colorado River.
Google Map
Verkamp's Visitor Center-Park Store
Grand Canyon Conservancy Store, Souvenir Shop, Visitor Center and Information. Open 8 am-7 pm Daily.
Google Map
Hopi House
Located right on the rim of Grand Canyon, offers authentic American Indian arts and craft and carries many other items for sale.
Google Map
El Tovar Hotel
Built in 1905, the El Tovar is the oldest hotel still operating within Grand Canyon National Park. Fine Dining, Lounge, Gift Shop and Newstand.
Google Map
Kachina Lodge
Built in 1968, sits directly on the Rim in the historic Village, walking distance to restaurants, gift shops, Kolb Studio, Verkamp's Visitor Center, and Bright Angel Trailhead.
Google Map
Thunderbird Lodge
Located on the canyon rim, some rooms offer canyon views while others offer views of the village.
Google Map
Lookout Studio
Designed by Mary Colter, and built right into the Canyon Rim, offers a Gift Shop and terraces to view the canyon below
Google Map
Bright Angel Lodge
Designed by Mary Colter in 1935, and located on the canyon's edge, it offers lodging, dining, gift shop, and a museum.
Google Map
Kolb Studio
Kolb Studio was established in the early 1900's, almost demolished in the 1960's, saved by the National Historic Preservation Act in 1966. Today it serves as a Gift Shop, Information Center, and a testament to the Kolb Brothers history at the Grand Canyon.
Google Map

The viewpoints on Hermit Road are accessible by PRIVATE VEHICLES in December, January and February only. From March 1-November 30, you can access these viewpoints by taking the Red Route Shuttle Bus

Maricopa Point
Unobstructed 180 degree views, glimpses of the Colorado River in the distance, interpretive info about the Orphan Mine, once the richest uranium source in the U.S. (1956‑1969).
Google Map
Powell Point
This large stone monument commemorates the 1869 Powell Expedition, the first known European American explorers to map the river's course by boat, traveling the Green and Colorado Rivers from Wyoming all the way through Grand Canyon.
Google Map
Hopi Point
This viewpoint offers panoramic and breathtaking views of the canyon along the scenic Hermit Road. An ideal location for sunrise or sunset, Hopi Point also offers five views of the Colorado River. Vault toilets available.
Google Map
Mohave Point
Another spectacular point for watching sunset, Mohave Point offers excellent views of the Colorado River deep in the canyon below. From here you can also see the Salt Creek, Granite, and Hermit rapids.
Google Map
The Abyss
The Abyss is a dramatic overlook on Hermit Road where the South Rim plunges almost 3,000 ft straight down to the Tonto Plateau.
Google Map
Monument Creek Vista
A spectacular view of Monument Creek far below and Granite Rapid on the Colorado River can be seen directly from this shuttle stop. This viewpoint is the eastern end of the Greenway Trail, a paved pedestrian and bicycle path that follows the alignment of an historic carraige road.
Google Map
Pima Point
Pima Point is one of the best viewpoints to see and hear the mighty Colorado River. Excellent Sunset Views.
Google Map
Hermits Rest
Hermits Rest is the last viewpoint on Hermit Road and was designed by Mary Colter in 1914. Today it offers a snack bar, souvenir shop and restrooms.
Google Map

Grand Canyon Stories

Read about the Grand Canyon National Park with our collection of stories. 

Grand Canyon Itineraries

You have visited one of the greatest natural wonders on earth….where are you headed next? Choose from the routes below to reach your next amazing destination. 

Heading Northeast from the Grand Canyon to Page, Arizona or Southern Utah? Check out these destinations along the way.

If you are travelling North East from the Grand Canyon or Tusayan areas, we recommend an Itinerary that includes stops at these Northern Arizona attractions.

Desert View Drive Viewpoints:

The best way to travel from Tusayan or the Grand Canyon South Rim to points North East is by driving along 64-East/Desert View Drive. 64 East will end at Highway 89 where you’ll head north towards Page. If you haven’t already visited some of the viewpoints on Desert View Drive with Buck Wild Hummer Tours, you should plan to stop at several of them on your drive out of the park.  Click on the Viewpoints on the map to locate the viewpoints.
View more information about the Grand Canyon Viewpoints on Desert View Drive.

Cameron Trading Post

Located approximately 35 miles from the Desert View Watchtower, the Cameron Trading Post is a great place to stop for a quick snack, some shopping, or to spend the night in the hotel or RV Park before continuing on your journey to Page, AZ. The trading post features Authentic Native American Fine Art Gallery; a Gift Shop with necessities, souvenirs, and Native American jewelry, baskets, rugs, pottery and more; a restaurant, hotel and RV Park.

The Hub-Official Adventures Tours Concierge of Page, AZ

The Hub in Page Arizona provides information for pretty much every tour, adventure, lodging, and dining option available in the Page area. Book your tours and activities with the Hub, and you are sure to get the best service in the area. Whether you are looking at Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell, or Native American Dinner Shows, the Hub is the place to start your search.

They are also EXPERTS in everything “The Wave”…from securing permits to providing the mandatory safety briefing, the Hub is the place to go for information about The Wave.

 

Heading South from the Grand Canyon? Check out these ‘must see’ locations on your drive through Northern Arizona.

After you have visited the Grand Canyon National Park South Rim, don’t let the fun stop there! If you are heading South from the Grand Canyon, perhaps to Williams, Flagstaff, Sedona, or Phoenix, check out these stops along the way and extend your Northern Arizona Vacation!

BEARIZONA WILDLIFE PARK

  • On your way from the Grand Canyon, check out Bearizona Wildlife Park in Williams for , an amazing experience for all ages. Expect to spend 1-2 hours at Bearizona. Grab lunch at Bearizona, or check out our Boarding Pass Partners in Williams for some great dining options.

LOWELL OBSERVATORY

  • Be sure to stop in Flagstaff to visit the Lowell Observatory, for fun activities including Star Gazing, Exhibits, Presentations and more. A quick visit to explore many of the options can be done in 1-2 hours, but plan to spend 3-4 hours to allow more time for guided tours, interactive exhibits, the historic Pluto Dome, and viewing through telescopes. The Lowell Observatory is open until 10:00 pm most nights, so you could stop for lunch before visiting.
  • Spending the night in Flagstaff? Check out our Lodging Boarding Pass Partners for discounts and Special Offers.  

Sedona

Leaving Flagstaff, you will head South on State Road 89A towards Sedona, approximately 35 miles/54 minutes (click for map) until you arrive in Scenic Sedona, home to stunning red rock formations, beautiful hiking trails, vibrant arts and culture, and energy vortexes for spiritual wellness.

  • Visit Red Rock State Park, a 286 acre nature preserve with excellent hiking loops, lush greenery, and amazing red rock formations.
  • Book a Pink Jeep Tour for exhilarating Off Road Adventures led by experienced and professional Guides.
  • Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a Roman Catholic Church built into the red rock cliffs.
  • Enjoy lunch or dinner at one of our Boarding Pass Partners in Flagstaff.
  • Stay overnight in one of Sedona’s many lodging options, including hotels, motels, resorts, Airbnbs and more. Check out our Boarding Pass Partners in Flagstaff for Lodging Options. 

 

On your drive from the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas, check out these Route 66 and Northern Arizona Attractions.

After your visit to the Grand Canyon National Park and the Tusayan area, if you are heading to Las Vegas, California or other locations to the West, be sure to add these locations to your Itinerary!

WILLIAMS

Visit Bearizona in Williams, just one hour from the Grand Canyon and located right off AZ 64 and the I-40 Interstate. This Drive Through Wildlife Park is an adventure for all ages. ‘

Williams to Kingman

Ash Fork Route 66 Museum, Discover Ash Fork’s Route 66 Historic Museum, showcasing Arizona’s rich railroad and local history. Perfect for travelers and history enthusiasts.

Delgadillo’s Snow Cap. Kitschy drive-in with eclectic Route 66/Americana decor & a classic menu of burgers, malts & shakes.

Kingman Powerhouse Visitor Center. The Visitor Center includes a massive metal archway in the shape of the Route 66 shield. Drive your car through for the ultimate “I was here” photo op.

Grand Canyon Caverns. Twenty-one stories deep and about a mile off of old Route 66 sits the Grand Canyon Caverns. Formed over 15 million years ago, they were discovered in 1927, and tours began in 1962