Las Vegas Sightseeing: Travel to Grand Canyon West Rim or South Rim?
Las Vegas is a great jumping off point for side trips to the Grand Canyon. The two most popular destinations are the West Rim and the South Rim. To help you decide which to visit, here's a rim-by-rim breakdown:
Time
The one-way drive time by bus from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon West is 2.5 hours and 5.5 hours to the South Rim. Expect to spend a whole day doing either of these tours. The South Rim bus, which leaves early, will have you back at the hotel at 9 p.m., while the West Rim luxury bus gets back into town by 6 p.m.
Distance
The one-way driving distance from Las Vegas to the West Rim is 128 miles and 279 miles to the South Rim. Both are relatively long trips. Fortunately, today's motor coach has all the amenities, including plush seats and a clean bathroom. Included are also several rest stops where you can get off the bus (including Hoover Dam).
Things to Do
Here's where the two Rims begin to separate. Grand Canyon West features more man-made attractions; the South, more natural ones. The visitor amenities (lodging, dining, museums) are more established at the South Rim. Here are specifics:
South Rim
1. Lookouts
This part of the Park is filled with famous lookouts, including Mather Point, Yaki Point, Yavapai Observation Station, Hermit's Rest and more.
2. Restaurants
Plenty of casual dining here. The Bright Angel Lodge restaurant serves up home-style cooking that's priced right. For cafeteria-style dining, go to Maswick Lodge. There's a small snack bar behind the Lodge Restaurant. High-end dining (and cocktails) can be had at El Tovar. There's a supermarket by Mather Campground that sells deli sandwiches, fried foods, and pizza.
3. Gift Shops
Something for everyone. Hopi House specializes in Native American crafts (can be pricey). The gift shop at Bright Angel Lodge, Verkamp's, and Lookout Studio are great for souvenirs. Expensive art is located on the basement floor of Kolb Studio.
Grand Canyon West
1. Skywalk
The Glass Bridge has become Las Vegas' hottest "off-Strip" attraction. Since opening to the public in 2007, more than one million people have experienced the Bridge. It's a fantastic structure: Built of specially made glass panels, it goes 70 feet past the edge and lifts you 4,000 feet over the Colorado River.
2. Hualapai Ranch
Includes an authentic western town with live gunfights. Horseback riding and river rafting starts here. Helicopter flights take visitors to bottom of the Canyon. Accommodations are available for travelers who want to spend the night.
3. Lookouts
Eagle Point is the main lookout for the West Rim. Spectacular views are to be had. Be warned - There's no guardrail. The location features an authentic Indian village and outdoor stadium where locals share their culture and knowledge about surrounding flora and fuana.
4. Gift Shops/Food
The West Rim is still evolving. Currently, there' the gift shop run by the Hualapai Indian Tribe. Inside, you can purchase snacks and souvenirs. Most bus tours will include lunch, which will most likely be a barbeque prepared for you by the Hualapai.
Weather
The South Rim, elevation 7,000 feet, is 1,500 feet higher than the West Rim, so expect cooler temperatures. Other than that, both areas are subject to extreme weather. Here's a quick look at annual temperatures for both rims:
West Rim/Skywalk
Elevation is 4,700+ feet.
Jan. - March Average high temperature: 70 degrees. Average low: 43 degrees.
April - June Average high temperature: 96 degrees. Average low: 65 degrees.
July - Sept.: Average high temperature: 105 degrees. Average low: 76 degrees.
Oct. - Dec.: Average high temperature: 76 degrees. Average low: 46 degrees.
South Rim
Elevation is 7,000 feet
Jan. - March Average high temperature: 45 degrees. Average low: 21 degrees.
April - June Average high temperature: 69 degrees. Average low: 39 degrees.
July - Sept.: Average high temperature: 82 degrees. Average low: 52 degrees.
Oct. - Dec.: Average high temperature: 52 degrees. Average low: 27 degrees.
What to Wear & What to Bring
Warm layers in the winter and wind-resistant, cool clothing in the summer. Expect winter snow at the South Rim and wear pants, shoes and a jacket (it's not uncommon to see people in shorts!). During summer months, make sure to carry plenty of water and sun tan lotion with you.
Cost
Grand Canyon West rim tours start at $94. South Rim at $79. Cost of the trip includes entrance to the National Park. RSVP on the Internet to get the best deal. Tickets to the Skywalk cost extra ($29).95 for adults, $22.95 for kids ages 3-11, and $26.95 for seniors and active military.
Summary
The Rims of the Grand Canyon are wondrous places. It would be great if there was a Las Vegas-Grand Canyon tour that did both but there isn't (if there were, it would be a two-day trip). However, the Rims are different enough in terms of tour time, price, and attractions that you can find the trip that's right for you.
About the Author
Keith Kravitz is a travel expert who writes only about tours to the Grand Canyon. He also posts his unbiased reviews about tour operators at: http://www.GrandCanyon123.com
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