A Brief Guide to Visiting the Grand Canyon

On holiday in Las Vegas there are plenty of things to keep you occupied in the city itself, but anyone visiting the area should make the time to visit the spectacular Grand Canyon National Park. Often described as one of the greatest sights on the planet, the Grand Canyon is a relatively simple excursion from the city of Las Vegas. Unlike many other tourist attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Canyon is extremely expansive, so there are various parts of it you can visit and different ways to get there.

The two main areas of the canyon renowned for the best views are the West Rim and the South Rim. The West Rim is the closer to the city and is increasingly popular with visitors since the opening of the SkyWalk. This cantilever glass bridge extends 70 feet out from the rim of the canyon into open air. Suspended 4,000 feet high in the air above the Colorado River, it is almost like walking on air! Although this rim is not part of the National Park, visitors can expect to pay an entrance fee and cannot bring their own food. Privately owned and very remote, it is best to visit this part of the Grand Canyon with an organised tour for your own convenience.

Another way to see the Canyon is the South Rim. At 278 miles from Las Vegas, this side of the Canyon takes longer to get to, but isn't a private business like the West Rim. Like all parts of the canyon, the South Rim offers astounding natural views and attracts over 5 millions visitors each year - by far the most visited side of the canyon. This is largely due to the wealth of nearby amenities it provides. Be aware that you will need to pay a fee to travel through the National Park to reach the view points at the South Rim.

One of the most spectacular ways to experience the Canyon in all its glory is by helicopter. Various companies offer flights from Vegas' McCarran airport, but like all of the best things in life, this comes at a cost. Most tours will land at the West Rim of the Canyon and some also fly over Lake Mead, the Colorado River and the Hoover Dam before descending into the depths of the Canyon. No matter which part you choose to visit, the Grand Canyon is a breathtaking experience not to be missed on any Las Vegas holiday.