The geologic wonders of the Grand Canyon attract visitors year-round, but the wintertime offers a truly magical experience. Crowds are at the all-time low, temperatures are mild, rain is minimal, and you get to enjoy almost everything the park has to offer. Here’s how you can start planning your getaway and make the most of your trip.
Regardless of what kind of camping experience you prefer, you’ll want to check out the Mather Campground. This area is located on the south rim within the Grand Canyon village, offering access to shuttle buses, a visitor’s center, and the Trailer Village for RVs. This campground is open year-round, however, it is first-come first-served for the months December through February.
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Don’t be fooled by this desert locale—many of the trails experience icy conditions in the winter time. The Hermit Trail tends to see the least amount of winter conditions in the South Rim, making it one of the safer trails to hike. Keep in mind that no trail into the canyon is considered easy. When you descend into the canyon, remember you’ll also have to hike up to get out.
Bike rentals are available on the South Rim when weather permits (or you can bring your own). You can bike on any of the paved or unpaved roads within the park, in addition to the Hermit Road Greenway Trail. Bright Angel Bicycles offers bike rentals, shuttles, bike tours, and also a coffee shop to suffice your needs. Ditch the struggle and book a tour with them, you’ll be in your prime taking in the sites of the beautiful thoughtfully selected paths.
Speaking of tours, there are many tours and classes offered throughout the year at the Grand Canyon, giving you a closer look at the park and all its wonders. From photography to natural history to groups hikes and more, you can plan your visit around their schedule to make the most of your time at the park. Check out what there is to offer, however keep in mind that some are not offered during the winter months.
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The South Rim offers mule trips year-round and take you to all the best scenes of the canyon. These trips book up fast, so you’ll want to try to plan in advance.
Located inside the Bright Angel Lodge, this coffee house will warm your body and spirits. Focused on organic ingredients, you can grab a hot drink and a pastry or other treat to keep you fueled for your weekend.
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This little market square offers everything for the traveler: clothing, grocery essentials, deli, and even a bank and post office. If you forgot some essential camping or hiking gear, they’ve got you covered. They also have a huge selection of fresh eats to take back to your campsite for a gourmet meal.
Tucked between the Grand Canyon Village and Grand Canyon Visitor Center, you’ll find a charming little museum full of history and knowledge. The building itself is one of the most unique in the area, steeped in history and looks as though it were carved directly into the cliffside. Step inside to learn more about the geology of the area, pick up a few souvenirs, and soak in the sweeping views of the canyon.
Located on the North Rim of the park, the museum centers around the remains of an ancient Puebloan village dating back over 800 years prior. Visitors can learn more about the ruins and the people that once inhabited them, view artifacts from the time period, and roam the museum’s gift shop.
You’ll step back in time with this real western saloon in the North Rim. People say Rough Riders is a hidden gem, that the staff fills the place with character, the food and drinks are top notch, and the views are spectacular. Come for breakfast and stay for the refreshing drinks. Try a prickly pear margarita; they’ll certainly leave you raving about them.
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Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.
