The Most Popular Part of the Grand Canyon: Discover the Must-See Destination

Choose the part you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Sep 13, 2023 10:12
Welcome to StrawPoll, where your opinion matters! We're excited to present our latest ranking – "What is the most popular part of the Grand Canyon?" This natural wonder has captivated the hearts and minds of millions, and now it's time for you to weigh in on its most awe-inspiring aspects. From the majestic South Rim to the rugged North Rim, or perhaps the tranquil Havasu Falls or the exhilarating Skywalk, we want to hear what takes your breath away. Cast your vote now for your favorite spot, or suggest a hidden gem that deserves recognition. Together, let's uncover the true beauty of the Grand Canyon and inspire wanderlust in the hearts of our fellow adventurers!

What Is the Most Popular Part of the Grand Canyon? (September 2023)

  1. 1
    79
    votes
    The South Rim is the most popular and visited part of the Grand Canyon. It offers stunning views of the canyon and has a variety of activities and amenities for visitors.
    Description
    The South Rim is the most visited part of the Grand Canyon and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic natural wonder. It stretches for approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers) and is located in the state of Arizona, USA. The South Rim is known for its accessibility, diverse wildlife, and extensive hiking trails that cater to all skill levels.
    • Elevation: Approximately 7,000 feet (2,133 meters)
    • Length: Approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers)
    • Location: Arizona, USA
    • Accessibility: Easily accessible by road and shuttle services
    • Visitor Center: Multiple visitor centers for information and services
    South Rim in other rankings
  2. 2
    32
    votes
    Bright Angel Trail
    Jarek Tuszyński · CC BY-SA 4.0
    This popular hiking trail offers incredible views of the canyon and is one of the most popular trails in the park.
    Description
    The Bright Angel Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Grand Canyon National Park, located in Arizona, USA. This iconic trail offers breathtaking views of the canyon, diverse ecosystems, and allows hikers to experience the magnificent geological formations up close. It is known for its historical significance and is widely recognized as a remarkable achievement in trail construction.
    • Cautions: Hiking in the summer can be extremely hot. Adequate preparation, including carrying enough water, is crucial.
    • Length: 9.3 miles (round trip)
    • Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
    • Elevation Gain: 3,060 feet
    • Starting Point: Grand Canyon Village, South Rim
  3. 3
    17
    votes
    Havasu Falls
    Gonzo fan2007 · CC BY-SA 3.0
    Located in the Havasupai Indian Reservation, Havasu Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that is a popular destination for hikers and photographers.
    Description
    Havasu Falls is a breathtakingly beautiful natural wonder located in the Havasupai Indian Reservation in Arizona, United States. It is known for its mesmerizing turquoise blue waters, dramatic cascades, and lush green surroundings. The falls are a part of Havasu Creek, which flows through the stunning Havasu Canyon in the Grand Canyon National Park.
    • Height: Approximately 100 feet (30 meters)
    • Type: Tiered waterfall
    • Surroundings: Lush greenery, vivid vegetation
    • Access: Accessible via a challenging hike from Hualapai Hilltop
    • Permits: Permits required for entry and camping
    Havasu Falls in other rankings
  4. 4
    11
    votes
    The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a glass bridge that extends over the canyon, offering visitors a unique and thrilling view of the landscape.
    Description
    The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a breathtaking glass bridge that extends out from the edge of the Grand Canyon, offering visitors a unique perspective and thrilling experience. It is one of the most iconic and popular attractions in the Grand Canyon.
    • Location: It is located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation in Arizona, USA.
    • Size: The Skywalk is approximately 70 feet (21 meters) in length and extends about 70 feet from the edge of the Canyon.
    • Height: It stands at a height of about 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) above the floor of the canyon.
    • Construction: The structure features a U-shaped cantilevered glass bridge with a steel frame, allowing visitors to walk over the transparent floor and have unobstructed views of the Grand Canyon.
    • Floor Material: The floor is made of multiple layers of tempered glass, capable of supporting the weight of numerous visitors.
    Grand Canyon Skywalk in other rankings
  5. 5
    8
    votes
    The North Rim is a less crowded and more secluded area of the Grand Canyon, offering visitors a quieter and more peaceful experience.
    Description
    The North Rim of the Grand Canyon is a majestic and lesser-visited section of the iconic natural wonder. Located on the north side of the Colorado River, it offers breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and a more secluded and peaceful experience compared to the busier South Rim.
    • Elevation: approximately 8,000 feet (2,438 meters)
    • Average Temperatures: summer: 50-80°F (10-27°C), winter: 20-45°F (-7 to 7°C)
    • Visitor Center: The North Rim Visitor Center provides information, exhibits, and ranger-led programs.
    • Trails: The North Kaibab Trail, Bright Angel Point Trail, and Transept Trail are popular hiking options.
    • Lodging: The Grand Canyon Lodge offers rustic cabins and motel rooms for overnight stays.
    North Rim in other rankings
  6. 6
    5
    votes
    Rafting on the Colorado River is a popular activity for adventurous visitors who want to experience the canyon from a different perspective.
    Description
    Colorado River Rafting is a thrilling adventure that takes place in the Grand Canyon, one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. Participants board inflatable rafts to navigate through the majestic canyon while the powerful Colorado River propels them forward. This immersive experience allows adventurers to witness the breathtaking beauty and geological diversity of the Grand Canyon up close.
    • Duration: 5-16 days
    • Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
    • Distance: 225-280 miles
    • Raft Type: Inflatable
    • Group Size: 10-25 participants
  7. 7
    7
    votes

    Mather Point

    Stephen Mather
    Mather Point is one of the most popular viewpoints on the South Rim, offering breathtaking views of the canyon and the Colorado River.
    Description
    Mather Point offers one of the most breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon. Located on the South Rim, this popular viewpoint provides visitors with an expansive vista of the canyon's magnificent beauty. The overlook is named after Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service, who played a significant role in the preservation of the Grand Canyon.
    • Location: South Rim
    • View: Breathtaking panoramic view of the Grand Canyon
    • Accessibility: Easily accessible by shuttle buses and private vehicles
    • Height: Approximately 7,120 feet above sea level
    • Size: Expansive viewing area with ample space for visitors
    Mather Point in other rankings
  8. 8
    6
    votes
    The Desert View Watchtower is a historic tower located on the South Rim, offering visitors stunning views of the canyon and the surrounding landscape.
    Description
    The Desert View Watchtower is a prominent landmark located at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the canyon and its stunning surroundings. The watchtower is a unique blend of architecture and indigenous art, providing visitors with a memorable experience.
    • Height: 70 feet
    • Construction Materials: Petrified wood and local rocks
    • Architectural Style: Pueblo Revival
    • Year Built: 1932
    • Number of Floors: 3
    Desert View Watchtower in other rankings
  9. 9
    7
    votes
    Grand Canyon Village
    Marine 69-71 · CC BY-SA 4.0

    Grand Canyon Village

    Fred Harvey Company
    The Grand Canyon Village is a popular area on the South Rim that offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors, including restaurants, shops, and lodging options.
    Description
    Grand Canyon Village is a vibrant destination situated on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, Arizona. It serves as a central hub for visitors to the Grand Canyon National Park, offering a wide range of amenities, accommodations, and attractions.
    • Location: South Rim of the Grand Canyon, Arizona
    • Established: 1901
    • Size: 13.4 square miles
    • Elevation: 6,800 feet (2,073 meters)
    • Accommodations: Multiple hotels, lodges, and campgrounds
  10. 10
    4
    votes
    The Toroweap Overlook is a remote and secluded area of the Grand Canyon that offers visitors stunning views of the canyon and the Colorado River.
    Description
    The Toroweap Overlook is a breathtaking viewpoint located on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It offers visitors a stunning panoramic view of the Canyon and the Colorado River below. The overlook is known for its dramatic cliffs, rugged beauty, and unobstructed views that provide an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
    • Location: North Rim of the Grand Canyon
    • Elevation: 3,000 feet (910 meters)
    • Distance from Visitor Center: Approximately 61 miles (98 kilometers)
    • Access: Requires a high-clearance vehicle or a guided tour
    • Height of Cliffs: Up to 3,000 feet (910 meters)

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Ranking factors for popular part

  1. Accessibility
    Areas that are easily accessible by car, shuttle bus, or trail are more likely to be popular among tourists.
  2. Activities and attractions
    Availability and variety of activities and attractions can influence popularity. Factors like viewpoints, hiking trails, river rafting, helicopter tours, educational programs, and historical sites can attract more visitors.
  3. Accommodation and amenities
    The presence of lodging, dining options, restrooms, and other facilities can affect the popularity of a certain area.
  4. Scenic views and unique geological features
    The uniqueness, beauty, and diversity of the landscape can be major factors in attracting tourists.
  5. Wildlife viewing opportunities
    Areas that are known for wildlife sightings and interactions could be more popular for nature enthusiasts.
  6. Seasonal variations
    Different areas of the Grand Canyon might be more popular at different times due to weather patterns, seasonal events, or specific activities.
  7. Accessibility for different age groups and abilities
    Some areas might be more popular due to being more accessible or appealing to visitors of varying physical abilities and age groups.
  8. Marketing and promotion
    The amount and type of promotion done by tourism authorities or companies can affect the popularity of specific parts of the Grand Canyon.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular part of the Grand Canyon. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or your favorite part is missing from the list, feel free to help us improve the ranking.

Statistics

  • 1585 views
  • 176 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each part once every 24 hours. The rank of each part is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.


More information on most popular part of the grand canyon

The Grand Canyon is one of the most well-known natural wonders in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. This massive gorge was formed over millions of years by the Colorado River cutting through the rock, creating a breathtaking landscape that spans over 277 miles in length and up to 18 miles in width. The Grand Canyon is also home to a variety of unique wildlife and plant species, making it an important ecological site. With so much to explore, it's no wonder that visitors often debate over which part of the Grand Canyon is the most popular. From the South Rim to the North Rim, each area offers its own distinct views and experiences, creating a diverse range of options for visitors to choose from.