How to Choose a Grand Canyon Tour from Vegas
How to Choose a Grand Canyon Tour from Vegas
Deciding between a tour to West Rim or the South Rim of the Grand Canyon while visiting Las Vegas? It's a hard choice. Both attractions are worth the trip. However, there are a few logistical and budgetary differences amongst the two that can help solve the dilemma for you.
For your consideration:
Trip Duration
Driving from Las Vegas to the West Rim takes 2.5 hours and from Vegas to the South Rim takes 5.5 hours. Budget an entire day for either trip. The South Rim bus, which leaves early, will have you back at the hotel at 9 p.m., whilst the West Rim bus returns by 6 p.m.
How Far Is It?
The one-way driving distance from Las Vegas to the West Rim is 128 miles and 279 miles to the South Rim. Both are full-blown road trips. Fortunately, today's motor coach has all the amenities, including plush seats and a clean bathroom. Most tours include plenty of rest stops where you can get off the bus and stretch your legs. Some include a photo stop at Hoover Dam.
Things to do
Here's where the two Rims begin to separate. The West Rim has more man-made attractions; the South, more natural ones. The South Rim is also more developed and features more dining, hiking, and shopping opportunities. Here are specifics:
South Rim
Lookouts
This part of the Park is packed with famous view points, including Mather Point, Yaki Point, Yavapai Observation Station, Hermit's Rest and more.
Dining
Plenty of casual dining here. The Bright Angel Lodge restaurant serves up home-style cooking that's affordable. Go to Maswick Lodge for cafeteria-style dining. There is a small snack bar behind the Lodge Restaurant. High-end dining (and cocktails) can be had at El Tovar Hotel. Near Mather Campground is a supermarket with deli, fried foods, and pizza.
Souvenir Shops
There are mementos for everyone. For Native American crafts, shop Hopi House (can be expensive). The Bright Angel Lodge has the best variety. If you can't find what you want there, head over to Verkamp's and Lookout Studio. Visit Kolb Studio for fine western art.
Grand Canyon West
Skywalk
The Glass Bridge has become Las Vegas' hottest "off-Strip" attraction. More than 1 million people have "walked the sky" since the bridge opened in 2007. It's a fabulous structure: Made of special glass, it extends 70 feet over the Canyon, wherein you're suspended 4,000 feet above the Colorado River.
Hualapai Ranch
Re-created western town replete with cowboys and gunfights. Horse riding and river rafting starts here. Helicopter flights take visitors to bottom of the Canyon. Lodging is available for overnight stays.
View Points
Eagle Point is the most important lookout for the West Rim. Views are incredible. Be warned - There's no guardrail. There's also an Indian Village where that includes tee pees, native homes, and an outdoor amphitheater where the Hualapai share their culture through dance and singing performances.
Souvenir Shops/Restaurants
The West Rim is a work in progress. Currently, there's the gift shop run by the Hualapai Indian Tribe. Inside, you can get snacks and souvenirs. Bus tours include a delicious BBQ lunch prepared by the Hualapai.
Weather
The South Rim, elevation 7,000 feet, is 1,500 feet higher than the West Rim, so expect cooler temperatures. That said, both rims are home to extreme weather conditions. Here are annual temps by rim:
Glass Bridge/West Rim
Elevation is 4,700 feet.
Jan. - March Average high temperature: 70 degrees. Average low: 43 degrees.
April - June: Avg. high temp: 96 degrees. Average low: 65 degrees.
July - Sept.: Avg. high temp.: 105 degrees. Average low: 76 degrees.
Oct. - Dec.: Avg high temp.: 76 degrees. Average low: 46 degrees.
South Rim
Elv.: 6,000 feet
Jan. - March Avg. high temp.: 45 degrees. Average low: 21 degrees.
April - June: Avg. high temp.: 69 degrees. Average low: 39 degrees.
July - Sept.: Avg. high temp.: 82 degrees. Average low: 52 degrees.
Oct. - Dec.: Average high temperature: 52 degrees. Avg low: 27 degrees.
How to Dress & 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!). Throughout the summer, always bring a water bottle and lots of sunscreen.
How Much Does It Cost?
Tours to the West Rim start under $100. South Rim trips at $80. Tour rates include Park entrance fees. Get the best price by booking online. Glass Walkway tickets are extra and cost $29.95 for adults, $22.95 for children ages 3-11, and $26.95 for seniors and military personnel.
Wrap Up
South Rim or West Rim? Tough call. Both are stunningly beautiful and offer plenty of things to do. It really boils down to how much time you have and your budget. Focus on these two criteria and you'll know which Grand Canyon tour from Las Vegas is right for you.
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