The Grandest Canyon of All

Nevada likes to claim it. The United States Postal Service tried to give it to Colorado. But, we’re proud to tell you that the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is located right here in Arizona! In fact, it’s just a 4-hour drive from Scottsdale, which makes it ideal for a day-long adventure or an easy overnighter during your next Scottsdale getaway.

Here’s a quick look at the grandest canyon of all:

South Rim – The spectacular South Rim is located just 4 hours north of Scottsdale by car or coach. It houses the main Grand Canyon visitor center and offers an abundance of hiking trails and scenic overlooks. The South Rim is open 365 days a year (including holidays) and offers accommodations at a variety of hotels and motels, including the historic El Tovar Hotel. Attractions and activities include the Tusayan Museum, IMAX Theater, ranger-led programs, shopping, restaurants, and more.

North Rim – If you’re looking for a more peaceful Grand Canyon experience, the North Rim is your ticket to bliss. Though more remote than the South Rim, it’s still only a 6 ½-hour drive from Scottsdale. It also offers a bevy of scenic overlooks and hiking trails, as well as lodge and campground accommodations, a visitor center, ranger-led programs and dining at the Grand Canyon Lodge. The North Rim is open from mid-May to mid-October.

Exploring it All – There are many exciting ways to discover the magic and mysteries of the Grand Canyon. Designated viewpoints provide breathtaking photo ops. For an eagle's view, helicopter and fixed-wing operators offer scenic air tours over the canyon. You also can tour the Canyon’s rim by bus or foot path, hike down its famous trails or take a mule ride to the bottom. Multi-day river rafting excursions offer thrills, chills and an abundance of scenic views. And, if you’d like to let someone else do the driving, take a ground tour from Scottsdale or check out the Grand Canyon Railway, which departs daily from Williams, AZ.