Grand Canyon in the Summer

Looking for a new destination for your summer travels? Consider adding the Grand Canyon to your adventure list! This geological wonder is ideal for both families and thrill-seekers alike; take in stunning, panoramic vistas or experience the canyon from a bird’s eye view and witness its beauty via flight.

The Grand Canyon – which began forming 17 million years ago – is dense with history, layered with jaw-dropping red rock, and filled with unique flora and fauna. Its spectacular landscape is beautiful at any time of year, but summer is this National Park’s peak season and a great time to visit. Use this guide to plan your upcoming summer vacation and make unforgettable memories in one of the world’s wonders.

 

Grand Canyon South Rim

Summertime visitors should choose the South Rim for their Grand Canyon stay; the North Rim is remote and inaccessible, while the West Rim falls outside of the National Park and boasts hotter temperatures. The weather is more temperate at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon – a quality you’ll surely appreciate during summer months. The Grand Canyon South Rim not only offers the breathtaking viewpoints seen in films and on postcards, but it also provides plenty of choices for activities. These qualities, in addition to top-of-the-line amenities, make this region a fantastic place to visit for families traveling with children.

Adventuresome visitors also have much to enjoy and can choose from an assortment of exhilarating excursions. Find the official Visitor Center located at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon; our knowledgeable and friendly staff will provide you with everything you need to know to experience the trip of a lifetime.

Helpful Hints for Summer Travel

Located in the heart of Arizona, the vast Grand Canyon is home to two prominent deserts: the Mojave and the Sonoran. Summertime months are predictably warm and dry, with daytime highs registering on average in the 80’s or 90’s. In instances of extreme heat, temperatures can reach up to 120 degrees. It might be too hot for some of the Canyon’s esteemed hikes, but don’t let the sweltering sun prevent you from experiencing the majesty of this world wonder.

Here are some tips to make the most out of your visit to the Grand Canyon in the summer:

• Accommodations
  Use the accommodation directory to find lodging options along the South Rim. Plan ahead by finding a place to retire from the summer sun. Our guide can show you a number of hotels, motels, inns and resorts conveniently located near the Grand Canyon National Park. You can also choose to stay inside the park if you prefer, either in modern lodges or in rustic cabins. Or, for a quiet and authentic experience, pitch a tent at a Grand Canyon campground. If you do, remember that although the temperatures are high during the day, they can drop down to 40 or 50 degrees at night, so come prepared.
• Strategic Sights
  Visiting the Grand Canyon in summer requires careful strategy—make sure you look for viewpoints that require light physical activity. Mather Point is one of the most popular lookouts and is only a short walk from the Visitor Center. Take an easy walk to Hermit’s Rest at Pima Point and hang out at the café until sunset for a chance to watch the canyon hues’ stunning transformation. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the rim, or save energy and tour the land by car in an action-packed Jeep adventure. You can also peer into the canyon from above when you choose an exciting aerial flight. Stop by the Visitor Center and learn the best ways to get the most out of your Grand Canyon summer vacation.
• Beat the Heat

Temperatures range in the inner Grand Canyon in summer. During the warmer months, temperatures easily exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Keeping cool during your Grand Canyon adventure means getting creative with your itinerary. Check out the visitor center to bask in air conditioning, and take advantage of our IMAX® Film “Grand Canyon: Rivers of Time”.

A massive, six-story movie screen and digital surround sound immerse you into the Grand Canyon and allow you to marvel at its scenery while sitting in a comfortable theater. You’ll feel as though you’re actually there as you soar over the canyon and into its depths, rafting along the Colorado River accompanied by realistic sounds of rushing water. The sensation of motion made possible by IMAX® paired with thrilling cinematography makes this attraction a must-see during your Grand Canyon trip in the summer.

Once you’ve checked out the IMAX theater, take a shuttle tour to view the amazing sights without baking in the hot sun. During your travels, make sure you stay hydrated and wear protective clothing and sunscreen.

If you do decide to head out on a hike to take in the majesty of the Grand Canyon, aim for starting your adventure around dusk or dawn and take advantage of lower temperatures.

However you choose to spend your summertime stay in America’s geological phenomenon, turn to The Official Visitor Center for help. Our trained staff members are standing by with expert advice to help you create the trip of a lifetime. Stop by to see all the ways we serve our guests!