Itineraries for Your Trip to Grand Canyon National Park
2 Days in Grand Canyon National Park for First Timers
With two days in Grand Canyon National Park, you have an entire day to explore the popular sights along the South Rim as well as a day to learn about the history and culture of the Grand Canyon and tackle on an outdoor adventure or two. Here are a few ideas on how to spend your two days in Grand Canyon National Park.
Get an early start and hike along the Rim Trail from Grand Canyon Village and enjoy the sunrise at Yaki or Mather points. Alternatively, hike a short distance down Bright Angel Trail while the weather is still cool. Stop by the Visitor’s Center for trail maps and a quick introduction to the geology of the Grand Canyon.
One of the most exhilarating ways to see the Grand Canyon is from air. Helicopter tours and scenic flights take off from the South Rim as well as Las Vegas and Flagstaff. Choices include scenic rides and luxury tours, and aerial tours often include gourmet dinners and below-the-rim landings.
After a day exploring popular South Rim spots, take the shuttle bus out of the Village onto Hermit’s Rest Road for drop-off at one of several viewpoints in time for sunset. The lookouts are superb at sunset and offer a reprieve from the crowds at Grand Canyon Village.
Head to Grand Canyon's East Rim to visit Desert View Watchtower, an Ancestral Puebloan-inspired tower clinging to the edge of the canyon. Then stop by the ruins of an 800-year-old Ancestral Puebloan village at Tusayan Ruin and learn about the ancient people who once made this canyon home at Tusayan Museum.
Back at Grand Canyon Village, browse Native American crafts at Hopi House and art exhibits and pioneer photographs at Kolb Studio. Adventurous travelers might take a jeep adventure, join a cycling tour, or skydive over the rim.
For your final night at Grand Canyon National Park, enjoy live music at Bright Angel Bar or an elegant dinner at historic El Tovar. With clear skies and low light pollution, stargazing at the Grand Canyon is fantastic. Join a ranger-led stargazing tour or enjoy the starry skies from the rim.
