[ashara]

We are planning a day trip to Grand Canyon. Given the time constrains South Rim or North Rim would be the best idea? Or can we cover both in a day ?

I see that there are some shuttles that run along the South Rim can we catch it if we are reaching the North Rim or somewhere along the way.

Thanks

[Buzz123]

You don't say what your time constraints are, but the Big Ditch in a day is possible although not much fun.

It is at least 4½ to 5 hours drive each way. That leaves very little time to do much more than stop at one of the overlooks, then turn around and go back. The point of seeing the Grand Canyon is to experience the size and grandeur of the most beautiful place on earth. That means getting out of your car and doing some walking, or just finding a spot to sit and admire the wonders of nature like you will have never seen before.

I'm not sure I understand your question about north rim/south rim. If you're asking how long it takes to go from one to the other, the answer is, it's nearly as far from North Rim to South Rim as it is from Las Vegas to either one.

Although it is closer from Las Vegas to the North Rim entrance than the South Rim Entrance, it takes a little less time to drive via I-40 most of the way to the South Rim. Both are very scenic drives, however, the drive to the North Rim is more so. It is also cooler as the North Rim is 1,000 feet higher in elevation. For that reason though, the North Rim will soon be closing for the winter from mid-October to mid-May.

LV to North Rim: Driving Directions from Las Vegas, NV to North Rim, AZ

To South Rim: Driving Directions from Las Vegas, NV to South Rim Entrance Station, AZ

South Rim to North Rim or vice versa: Driving Directions from South Rim Entrance Station, AZ to North Rim, AZ

If your time is that limited, you might rather go to Zion National Park and save the Grand for when you have more time. Zion is only about an hour closer, but it's easier to do in a day, and it is incredibly spectacular; especially right now, as I imagine the leaves are turning, or in higher elevations, have already turned. Zion is a little easier on newbies too, and slightly less crowded at this time of year.

Zion National Park - Zion National Park Utah

In the little Zion Canyon entrance town of Springdale, UT, you'll find one of the best southwest/Mexican restaurants in this whole region...The Bit and Spur. And right in the middle of town is the Bumbleberry Restaurant where you'll find the best homemade bumble berry pie for several states around. Great for breakfast or lunch too.



Do yourself a favor and make the Grand Circle a complete vacation sometime.
Welcome to the Grand Circle Association Web Site

Here is a nice site: Grand Canyon North Rim

[TominLasVegas]

I myself liked the North Rim better.I thought it was a better view and not as many tourists.

[jfkIII]

If you're Chinese, head to the south rim to watch the sun rise over the horizon.

[Buzz123]

If you are really in a hurry you could take one of the many flights over the Canyon. I don't know which one is best. But when they say they land at the bottom, I haven't been to that location but I don't believe it is really in the actual Grand Canyon. Heck, Lake Mead is part of the Grand Canyon, but it's not what you think of when you're talking about the National Park.

grand canyon flights - Google Search

[ashara]

Thanks for the detailed update and very useful information.

[Tiger Beer]

For hiking...South Rim is much steeper. The North Rim has a more gradual declination.

If you are ONLY going for viewing...both are good...North Rim gets few tourists...South Rim gets TONS of tourists.

I lived and worked at the South Rim for 10 months...still though, tons of tourists, but still very beautiful. You can't go wrong either way, it just depends on how much tourist and tourist stuff you want around you.