Explore Grand Canyon National Park.
Looking for the best resources to help plan your Grand Canyon National Park vacation?
Then you’ve come to the right place!
Hi, I’m Natalie, and I am a national parks-obsessed mom who has compiled all of the details, itineraries, dining guides, and hiking information for the perfect trip to one of the most incredible geological features in the entire world.
Whether you need to know where to get the best meals or which trail is best for your kids, you’ll find it here.
I only write about places I’ve been and experiences that I’ve had, so you’re getting up-to-date advice from a parent who has been there.
Grand Canyon at a glance
Covers 1.2 million acres
Located in Arizona
One of the 7 natural wonders of the world
Has 3 sections: South Rim, North Rim, and West Rim
Best known for its water carved canyons and cliffs
Has excellent hiking, mule rides, and historic lodges
Start here.
If you only read one of my Bryce Canyon guides, make it this one.
This Bryce Canyon National Parks with kids guide shares everything you could possibly think about when planning a vacation here from where to stay to where to pick up your Junior Ranger booklets.
Complete Itineraries
All you’ll need to do is book the plane tickets and hotel rooms. These complete itineraries take care of the day to day planning for you with suggestions on hotels, dining, and activities for the entire family.
Grand Canyon National Park Must Haves
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GuideAlong Audio Tour
We LOVE these inexpensive but excellent tours for our national parks visits. Purchase the Grand Canyon South Rim tour or the Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West, Hoover Dam, and Red Rock Canyon tour to learn about the park’s history, geology, wildlife, and important figures as you drive.
It doesn’t need wifi after you’ve downloaded the tour, and it starts and stops automatically as you approach areas of interest!
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Hiking Shoes
To truly experience the majesty of the Grand Canyon, you’ll want to make sure that everyone in your family has the proper footwear.
I swear by my Altra Timp Trail Runners, which are lightweight and sturdy and great for year round use.
I also love my Keen Newport H2 hiking sandals, but only bring these if you’re visiting the Grand Canyon in the summer.
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AllTrails + National Park Pass
Do not go to any of the U.S. national parks without this incredible deal!
For just a few dollars more than the cost of a regular NPS annual pass, you can get an annual AllTrail subscription and your national parks pass bundle.
Now, you’re ready to hit the trail and explore the parks!
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Garmin InReach Mini
I never go hiking without this tiny GPS attached to my pack.
Since I’m often hiking alone with my kids, the Garmin InReach gives me peace of mind that we could get help quickly if one of them (or me!) got hurt or sick on the trail.
This part of Arizona doesn’t have great cell reception, but you can always reach help with this unit.
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Rental Car
While there is public transportation within portions of Grand Canyon National Park, you’re going to want the flexibility of your own vehicle to explore points of interest beyond.
Check for the best rates at RentalCars.com with convenient pick-up options at all area airports.
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Travel Insurance
Visiting the national parks can be the trip of a lifetime, and you don’t want to let sickness or flight delays to ruin your trip.
Be sure to secure travel insurance from Visitors Coverage before you leave, and you’ll be ready for whatever life throws at you.