Assess your physical condition before choosing your sightseeing method. The rugged and uneven terrain of the canyon requires sure footing in sturdy, comfortable shoes. If you can carry a 20-lb backpack, climb steep rocky trails for distances of several miles and walk across narrow bridges you may opt for an in-depth walking, biking or mule tour. Overnight and day guided tours by bus, train, jeep or whitewater rafting are available.
Plan your trip well in advance. The Grand Canyon annually attracts 5 million visitors. Camp sites, lodging and tours fill up quickly in the summer months. The South Rim is open daily throughout the year. Roads and accommodations in the rugged North Rim, open from mid-May to mid-October, may be closed due to weather. A drive from the South Rim Village to the North Rim Village takes at least five hours. Allow sufficient time for your visit.
Carry extra car keys, medicines, sunscreen, film and other essentials. According to the National Parks System, the remote location at the Canyon means long waits for a locksmith. Keep your vehicle full of gasoline. Auto repair and gasoline is available at the Grand Canyon Village, but no gasoline is available inside the park, which is 26 miles from the Village.
Use the free park shuttle buses. The Grand Canyon advocates "traveling green."
