Rim Trail
#4 in Best Things To Do in Grand Canyon
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While the Grand Canyon Village has plenty to offer visitors, make sure you don't ignore the rest of the South Rim. The Rim Trail is one of the most popular and comprehensive trails in the Grand Canyon and one of the best ways to see the South Rim's most popular attractions and viewpoints. This fairly easy walking path traces the canyon's edge, stopping off at favorite lookout points like Maricopa Point and Hopi Point.
The Rim Trail begins at Pipe Creek Vista (several miles east of Grand Canyon Village) and ends at the popular Hermit's Rest lookout point west of the village. In total, the Rim Trail stretches about 12 miles. Fortunately for travelers, the park's free shuttle bus runs along a paved road along the trail, allowing for easy access to the village and points along the way.
Travelers enjoyed the variety offered along the trail, from crowded tourist points to more desolate stretches that allow for an escape to nature. Recent travelers said that the crowds are thick on the east side, near the gift shops, restaurants and lodging, but they thin out as you walk west. Others remarked on the accessibility of the trail, saying that much of it would be open to wheelchairs and strollers. Keep in mind: There is only water available at Grand Canyon Village and Hermit's Rest, so you'll need to pack plenty to stay hydrated. The trail is free to access with park admission. For more detailed information about the Rim Trail, consult the NPS website.
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2 of 11#1 Grand Canyon Village
Grand Canyon Village is the most popular entryway into the park and, as such, often suffers from heavy crowds during the peak seasons in spring, summer and fall. But there's a reason the area is so appealing. It's home to Yavapai Point, one of the best places to view the canyon. If you don't like camping but want to stay within the park, you should consider looking for lodging here.
If you're staying elsewhere, anticipate spending at least half a day visiting the village's sights. Stop by the rustic Grand Canyon Railway Depot, which welcomes Grand Canyon Railway passengers to the village. Here, you'll learn about how the expansion of the railroad had an impact on Grand Canyon tourism. For authentic Native American souvenirs, head to the Hopi House, an adobe-style building representing a traditional Hopi crafts studio. Meanwhile, art aficionados should stop by the Kolb and Lookout studios for works of art inspired by the Grand Canyon.
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