Explore the Grand Canyon Without the Crowds

When making a bucket list, many people follow the adage "Go big or go home." Few attractions are as memorable or huge as the Grand Canyon in Arizona, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Although photos elicit plenty of "oohs" and "aahs", nothing compares to a personal Grand Canyon experience. Between four to five million people visit the national park each year, and the large crowds limit parking, lengthen lines and reduce privacy. Fortunately, we have a few unique ways to explore the Grand Canyon without the crowds.

1. Head North

The South Rim is the most visited Grand Canyon destination, due in part to its close proximity to an interstate highway. However, many visitors prefer the great views, hiking opportunities, and quieter atmosphere of the North Rim, open from mid-May to mid-October. North Rim roads and services are closed from December to May and visitors are not permitted.

If you're driving from Flagstaff, head north on I-89 past Cameron to Bitter Springs. Veer left on I-89A to Jacob Lake and take AZ-67 for roughly 200 miles. It's a longer drive to the North Rim if you're traveling from the south, but the distance to the North Rim and South Rim are roughly equal if you're traveling from Las Vegas, a popular starting point.

2. Bide Your Time

The South Rim attracts the most tourists from mid-May to mid-October, so people looking for a more peaceful visit make the trip at other times of the year. The park offers lovely blooming wildflowers in the spring and colorful autumn foliage in September and October. Although winter weather is chilly in the park, temperatures are considerably warmer on the canyon floor. Because these trails are challenging, we recommend that only experienced and equipped hikers make the journey.

3. Ride the Rails

Enjoy what should be another bucket-list experience and avoid the drive to the park's South Rim by boarding the Grand Canyon Railway. Take the heritage steam train from Williams, Arizona in the morning and arrive at the Grand Canyon Depot just over two hours later. Options for travel include a one-day round trip ticket or lodging in the park with a return ticket for the following afternoon.

In the winter, take the family on a holiday adventure on the Grand Canyon Railway’s own Polar Express. Your journey will take you to the ‘North Pole’, where Santa and his reindeers will greet all visitors and provide excited children with a gift.

4. Take a Hike

Although the overlooks offer stunning panoramas, you can experience the best of the Grand Canyon by taking a hike along the trails. Even a short hike allows you to escape the crowds. On the South Rim, a walk along Canyon Rim Trail offers a number of crowd-free vantage points if you're willing to peek through the trees. As hikers descend deeper into the canyon, the crowds dissipate. For overnight trips, check with the park's Backcountry Information Center for the best routes and regulations, as you’ll need an overnight permit. On the North Rim, try Cape Final, Uncle Jim and Widforss Trails for spectacular, private views.

5. Lunch Picnic-Style

At lunchtime, Grand Canyon visitors flock to the park's restaurants and cafeterias. That's why it's smart to pack a picnic lunch. Less expensive and often healthier, a picnic lunch allows you to avoid lines and dine in the open air surrounded by the natural beauty. It's worth it.

6. Take to the Skies

There’s no better way to experience the Grand Canyon’s stunning vistas – book an aerial sightseeing tour of the Grand Canyon and beat the crowds in style. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re revisiting the natural wonder for a second time, the unique experience of seeing it from a new perspective will make a huge impact. Flights typically last around 45 minutes and showcase various highlights, such as the confluence of the Colorado River, Kaibab Plateau and Zuni Corridor. Be sure to pack your camera – you’ll get some photos to truly treasure.

Are you ready to explore one of the greatest wonders on earth? Take advantage of these tips to avoid the crowds and tell us about your bucket-list adventure on Facebook.