United States

Grand Canyon

© konoplizkaya / Depositphotos

Best time to visit

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One of Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Grand Canyon is impressive at any time. The best time to visit the Grand Canyon is during spring and autumn when the weather is mostly sunny but not too hot, which is perfect for sightseeing. From March to May, visitors can spot wildflowers in this dry and rocky place. It's also the time to observe baby animals and rare birds like the California Condor. In mid-May, the snow melts in the North Rim area, and it becomes possible to explore this less crowded part or do the Rim to Rim hike. June is also an excellent time to visit the canyon, especially for astronomy fans to join the Grand Canyon Star Party. July and August might be spoiled by visitor crowds and T-storms, but it's when most facilities and trails are open. Autumn is a sweet spot with fewer people and breathtaking sunsets. In winter, you might be lucky to capture the snow-powdered landscapes of the Grand Canyon.

16 things to do in Grand Canyon

River Rafting

April–October • Activity

It's impossible not to enjoy rafting in one of the best places in the world

Grand Canyon Star Party

June 1-8, 2024 • Event

The Grand Canyon offers dark skies and clean air, perfect for astronomers and enthusiasts

Wildflowers

March–May • Nature

Spring is the prime time to see Grand Canyon in bloom

Wildlife Watching

all year round (best: March–May) • Nature

Grand Canyon's wildlife encounters are impressive all year round, but the spring baby boom makes the season particularly attractive

Kayaking

April–October • Activity

In need of adventure? Explore Grand Canyon from the river's angle—by kayak

Grand Canyon Skywalk

November–May • Activity

Have the most breathtaking look on the Grand Canyon's bottom, 4,000 feet below

Grand Canyon Railway

all year round • Activity

Take a scenic train ride to one of the world's seven wonders

Snow-Powdered Landscape

December–February • Nature

Winter itself is a reason to visit the Canyon, with exceptionally beautiful snowscapes and no crowds

Monsoon Season

mid-June–mid-September • Weather

The greatest drawback of summer doesn't make the season impossible for visiting Grand Canyon, if you follow precautions

Skydiving

all year round • Activity

Enjoy a freefall in one of the world's top ten skydiving destinations

California Condor

April–September • Nature

Grand Canyon is one of the best sites in the world to spot the largest bird of North America

Rim to Rim Hike

mid-May–October • Activity

This hike is a classic bucket list adventure, North to South Rim or vice versa

Grand to Grand Ultra

September 22-28, 2024 • Event

Are you up for a seven-day race in one of the remotest parts of America?

Grand Canyon 4th of July Parade and Events

July 4 • Event

Celebrate America at one of the seven wonders of the world

Arizona Fall Colors

late September–November • Nature

Beautiful foliage complements rocky landscapes of Arizona

Fall Foliage

late September–early October • Nature

These Grand Canyon locations will surprise you even during fall

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