Grand Canyon West Rim
Grand Canyon National Park, Las Vegas, AZ, 86023
The Grand Canyon’s West Rim, located just outside Grand Canyon National Park, is home to the vast Hualapai Indian Reservation and includes 108 miles (173 kilometers) of picturesque canyon views. The closest section of the canyon to Las Vegas, the West Rim is famous for the lofty Grand Canyon Skywalk, Guano Point, and Eagle Point.
The basics
The West Rim is an ideal day trip destination from Las Vegas, Nevada. Hike the area, visit the Western-style Hualapai Ranch for food and themed activities, or step onto the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk—a glass bridge near Guano Point that allows visitors to see the Colorado River flowing 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) beneath their feet on the canyon floor.
The West Rim is a popular destination for helicopter tours from Las Vegas, which give travelers a bird's-eye view of the Grand Canyon's rock formations and nearby attractions such as the Hoover Dam and the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. For a special treat, opt for a sunset helicopter tour that includes Champagne. Bus tours from Vegas offer a different perspective and sometimes also include a visit to Joshua Tree National Park.
Things to know before you go
Plan to spend at least four hours exploring the West Rim.
Transportation by private vehicle is not permitted within Grand Canyon West. Parking is available, and a hop-on, hop-off shuttle bus transports visitors between viewpoints.
Bring sun protection, plenty of water, and comfortable shoes.
Wheelchair users may need assistance on the area's rough terrain.
How to get there
Grand Canyon West is two to three hours by road from Las Vegas and 90 minutes from Kingman, Arizona. The nearest airport is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas.
When to get there
The Grand Canyon is a scenic place to visit year-round, with its colors ranging from blazing summer reds to snowy winter hues. Summer is the busiest season, when it's best to arrive early and book tours in advance.
History of the West Rim
Although the Hualapai Reservation was created in 1883, the Grand Canyon West Rim area wasn't developed until 1988, when 2,100 members of the Hualapai tribe decided to open their ancestral lands to visitors. In addition to its stunning viewpoints, the area now offers white water rafting, scenic hiking trails, and rustic lodging to travelers.
Ways to explore
The West Rim is an ideal day trip destination from Las Vegas, Nevada. Hike the area, visit the Western-style Hualapai Ranch for food and themed activities, or step onto the famous Grand Canyon Skywalk—a glass bridge near Guano Point that allows visitors to see the Colorado River flowing 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) beneath their feet on the canyon floor. The West Rim is a popular destination for helicopter tours from Las Vegas, which give travelers a bird’s-eye view of the Grand Canyon’s rock formations and nearby attractions such as the Hoover Dam and the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Accessibility
While shuttles and certain attractions, such as the Skywalk, are accessible, many paths and overlooks are not accessible to wheelchairs.
Age limits
None, although the Skywalk is only open to kids old enough to walk on their own, and the Zipline has height and weight restrictions.
What to pack
Hat, sunscreen, refillable water bottle
What to wear
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate layers and good hiking shoes; revealing or offensive clothing is not permitted.
Not allowed
Outside food and beverages, any phones or personal items on the Skywalk, pets
Amenities
Eateries, lockers, gift shops, shuttles, smartphone app (no Wi-Fi available)
Address
The Grand Canyon West Rim is 2–3 hours by road from Las Vegas and 90 minutes from Kingman, Arizona. The nearest airport is Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas. Note that the West Rim is not part of Grand Canyon National Park; it is nearly 4 hours west of the national park.
Driving
From Las Vegas, take Highway 93 South, turn onto Pierce Ferry Road, and follow signs to the Grand Canyon West entrance. The drive is about 2–3 hours, and free parking is available on-site.
Public transportation
The Grand Canyon West Rim is not reachable by public transportation. You can book a guided tour—most of which depart from nearby Las Vegas—to reach the landmark
Best times to visit
To beat the crowds (and the soaring temperatures), arrive early in the morning to make the most of your Grand Canyon West Rim visit.
Best days to visit
Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends at the Grand Canyon.
Best months to visit
Summer is both the busiest and hottest time to visit, while winter can bring snow and cold temperatures. Aim for the spring or autumn shoulder seasons to keep things comfortable.
Special events
Christmas at the Canyon is an annual event that features festive decorations and special activities.
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