Decide when to go. The park is open all year, with the peak season running from April through October. Summertime means big crowds, traffic jams and heavy use of all park facilities, so you may wish to visit in spring or fall.
Choose a way to get there. You can fly into Phoenix, Flagstaff or the Grand Canyon Airport in Tusayan and rent a car. The canyon is located 60 miles north of Interstate 40 at Williams and 80 miles northwest of Flagstaff on Highway 180.
Decide where to stay. Options include in-park lodging, out-of-park lodging (very plentiful), grand canyon hotels, South Rim campsites and North Rim campsites. Sites in some campgrounds can be reserved up to five months ahead through the National Park Reservation Service Web page (reservations.nps.gov).
Stop in at the main visitor center, located near Grand Canyon Village. Pick up a copy of "The Guide," which lists current activities. See the informative exhibits and buy maps and trail guides.
Catch the view. The overlooks along Desert View Drive and Hermit Road are great viewing spots. The best photo ops are at sunset and sunrise.
Go hiking. Hiking is serious business in the Grand Canyon, so unless you are an experienced hiker, stay clear of the inner canyons. Take shorter day hikes on Bright Angel Trail or South Kaibab Trail. Bring a map, plenty of water, sunscreen and a fellow hiker.
Bring your mountain bike. Bikes are allowed only on roads that also allow cars, so be sure to wear a helmet and follow all traffic rules. You cannot rent bikes within the park.
See the Grand Canyon by air. Scenic air tours in planes and helicopters are available from commercial companies located outside the park, mostly at Grand Canyon Airport. Check the Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce Web site (www.grandcanyonchamber.org) for information or to make reservations.
Go fish! You'll need an Arizona fishing license, and most of the best fishing spots are in the backcountry. So you'll also need a backcountry permit before heading out.
Take a river trip. Smooth and white-water trips in dories and on rafts are extremely popular. They are generally available only from April to October, and prices vary according to the type of trip.
Search the Internet for other recreational opportunities, including a ride on the Grand Canyon Railroad, and for lists of companies that provide guided hiking, packhorse and mule treks.
