• Skip to main content
  • Skip to header right navigation
  • Skip to after header navigation
  • Skip to site footer
Vegas Primer

Vegas Primer

Must Do in Las Vegas for First Timers

  • DAY CLUBS
  • NIGHTCLUBS
  • ATTRACTIONS
  • SHOWS
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT
You are here: Home / Attractions / Grand Canyon West Rim: Day Trip Guide

Grand Canyon West Rim: Day Trip Guide

by Jenna · updated Jan 25, 2023
Photo of the Grand Canyon West Rim

I write about things I love to do in Las Vegas. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission, which helps to support my work. Learn more

The Grand Canyon West Rim is only two hours outside of Las Vegas. And it offers some of the most incredible Grand Canyon adventures you can imagine.

There are scenic viewpoints, ziplining, helicopter rides, and hiking trails. And let’s not forget – the famous Skywalk, where you’ll step out onto a glass bridge a mile off the ground!

This section of the Canyon is also on Hualapai Indian land, so you’ll get to experience the culture of the tribe, too.

And in this new day trip guide, I’ll cover pretty much everything you need to know about visiting Grand Canyon West.

Let’s get started!

VIEW WINTER DEALS
Table of Contents[Hide][Show]
  • About The West Rim+−
    • Hours of Operation
  • Las Vegas To Grand Canyon West Rim+−
    • Directions
    • Where To Get Gas
    • Parking
    • Points Of Interest
  • Tickets+−
    • Build Your Bundle
    • Autumn Adventure Deals
  • Things To Do At Grand Canyon West+−
    • Eagle Point
    • Grand Canyon West Rim Skywalk
    • Guano Point
    • Hualapai Point
    • Ziplines
    • Helicopter & Pontoon Tour
    • Shopping
  • Dining+−
    • Sky View Restaurant
    • Skywalk Cafe
    • Guano Point Cafe
    • Gwe Ma’jo Restaurant
  • FAQs: West Rim Grand Canyon+−
    • When Is The Best Time To Visit The West Rim?
    • Can You Drive Through Grand Canyon West?
    • Is There A Place To Stay The Night?
    • How Long Does It Take To See The West Rim?
    • Can You See The Grand Canyon West Rim For Free?
    • Can You Visit Hoover Dam And The Grand Canyon In One Day?
    • Where Is The Whitewater Rafting Experience?
    • Are Outside Food & Drink Allowed?
    • What Should I Wear To The Grand Canyon West Rim?
    • Is It Better To Drive Or Take A Bus Tour To The West Rim?
  • Conclusion

About The West Rim

The Grand Canyon West Rim is on the Hualapai Indian Reservation in Arizona. The tribal land stretches one million acres with over 100 miles of Grand Canyon and Colorado River views.

The Hualapai Tribe is a sovereign Indian nation, which means they don’t get any federal funding from the U.S. Government. So your visit to the West Rim helps support the tribespeople and their community.

And because it’s on Indian land, it’s not affiliated with the Grand Canyon National Park, so you’ll need to pay to enter. But it’s well worth it!

The Hualapai tribe has created an incredible place for tourists to visit. It’s well-run with complimentary shuttle services and thrilling Grand Canyon experiences. And it’s educational too, as you’ll learn about Native American history.

Hours of Operation

Grand Canyon West is open 365 days a year, including holidays! So you can plan your trip any day of the week, Monday through Sunday.

The current hours of operation are 8:00 am until sundown. And the closing hours fluctuate depending on the time of year. For instance, from March through October, the last entry is usually at 6:00 pm, while from November to February, it’s 5:00 pm.

The Grand Canyon West Rim is on Mountain Standard Time. So be sure to factor that into your travel time to ensure you arrive with enough time left in the day.

During Daylight Savings Time, this part of the Canyon is on the same time as Las Vegas. But during the winter, it’s an hour ahead.

Las Vegas To Grand Canyon West Rim

The Grand Canyon West Rim is only about 130 miles away from Las Vegas. So it’ll take you roughly two hours and 15 minutes (without stops) if you’re leaving from Las Vegas Blvd.

And assuming you’re using a phone GPS for directions, you’ll want to input “Grand Canyon West” or “Grand Canyon Skywalk “into the search bar. You can also use “Grand Canyon West Airport.”

Even though there’s an address listed on the map above, Grand Canyon West Rim does NOT have a postal address. So it’s important to input a location term into your phone like “Grand Canyon Skywalk” instead. If you enter a postal address, it may take you to the wrong location.

Directions

Starting from Las Vegas Blvd., merge onto I-215 East towards Henderson. In about 11 miles, take exit 1 onto US-93 to Boulder City. Be careful here, though; there are four lanes that exit. So you’ll need to stay in the right two lanes to go towards Boulder City.

Then, in 64 miles, turn left onto N Pierce Ferry Rd. This will put you on a two-lane road with cattle crossings. And, from here on out, the speed limit frequently changes, too – between 25 and 55 mph.

In 29 miles, take a right onto E Diamond Bar Rd. And then, in 17 miles, at the roundabout, take the second exit onto Buck And Doe Rd. Continue ahead for roughly 3 miles, and the parking lot will be on your right.

SEE WINTER DEALS

Where To Get Gas

If you fill up your tank before you leave Las Vegas, you may not need to stop for gas again until you get back. But if you need gas or want a great place to stop with clean restrooms, you won’t want to miss Last Stop on US-93.

It’s just about an hour outside of Vegas on the right side of the road. And although it’s not the last stop for gas on your way to the West Rim, the name sure is memorable!

There are at least 40 gas pumps, so you won’t have to wait to fill up your car. But the last time we went, the prices were about $0.30 higher per gallon than at other nearby stations.

The travel center is also home to the “World Famous Last Stop Kitchen,” where you can grab a meal. There’s Steel’s Hot Dogs & Sausages, Last Stop Burger, Brooklyn’s Best Pizza, and Arizona Hot Wings. And for dessert, there’s even ice cream.

Last Stop has tons of cool and unusual souvenirs, too. And it offers the most extensive beverage and snack selection I’ve ever seen. They even have alkaline water – which is hard to find on road trips!

Last Stop Gas Station in Arizona
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

Don’t miss the turn! You’ll want to look for the big red stop sign with “Last Stop Travel Center.” This is where you’ll turn right into the parking lot.

But if you do miss it, don’t worry! There are a couple of gas stations like Texaco and Chevron on US-93 just a few minutes after it. And there’s one on the corner of US-93 and Pierce Ferry Rd.

You can also stop at Last Stop again when heading back to Vegas. All you need to do is turn left from the highway to get to the parking lot.

Parking

You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see a big white tent on the right. You’ll also see helicopters to your left and the Hualapai tribe’s airstrip next to the tent.

If you’re coming on the weekends or during other peak times, there may be a backup of cars turning into the parking lot. And that’s because an attendant stops each vehicle and asks if any passengers have drones, weapons, or alcohol.

Once you’ve confirmed that you do not have these items, you’ll be allowed to park your car. There’s no fee for parking either, which is fantastic. And you can park anywhere you’d like.

Be sure to lock your car before heading inside the white tent through the turnstile doors. And now you’re ready to start your Grand Canyon West Rim adventure!

Parking lot for Grand Canyon West
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

Points Of Interest

If you have some extra time in your day, there are some great stops on the way to the West Rim. The first one is the Robert L. Mendenhall Scenic Overlook. And the second is the largest Joshua Tree Forest in the world!

Scenic Overlook: Lake Mead

You’ll find the Robert L. Mendenhall overlook off the right side of the road – about 35 miles outside Las Vegas. You’ll see a sign for it on the highway, too, so you’ll have some notice before you need to exit.

This scenic overlook offers an excellent view of Lake Mead. And it has some historical information about Hoover Dam, too. Like how Boulder City was built to house the construction workers for the dam.

You’ll also learn about the formation of Lake Mead and its shrinking water levels today. So you’ll be able to see how the water level has changed by looking out over the terrain.

The scenic overlook on the way to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

Joshua Tree Forest

About 25 minutes before you get to Grand Canyon West, you’ll find the Grapevine Mesa Joshua Tree Forest. It’ll be on the right-hand side of the road near the corner of Pierce Ferry Rd and Diamond Bar Rd.

This forest is a National Natural Landmark. And it’s the largest and densest of its kind in the world, spanning almost 45,000 acres! You can even take a short walk on a trail to see some of the Joshua trees up close.

Also, check out the information board before you enter the trail. You’ll read some interesting facts about the trees – including their average life span. And how they can reach a height of almost 50 feet!

Arizona Joshua Tree Forest
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

Love the Arizona Joshua Tree Forest? Then, you may want to check out the national monument campaign to protect these trees.

Tickets

No matter what you decide to do at Grand Canyon West, you’ll need to buy a general admission (GA) ticket. And that goes for everyone in your group – except for children four years of age and younger who get in for free.

GA tickets give you access to Hualapai Point, and the Grand Canyon views at Eagle Point and Guano Point. You’ll also get to ride on the complimentary hop-on, hop-off shuttle service.

If you’re interested in the zipline or taking a helicopter and pontoon tour, you’ll need to buy an add-on ticket. The Skywalk is also an additional charge. But kids ages four and younger can go on the Skywalk for free, too, as long as they’re old enough to walk by themselves.

SEE TICKET OPTIONS

You can build an à la carte bundle or save some money and select from a pre-packaged Autumn Adventure Deal.

Build Your Bundle

The following rates are subject to change and vary depending on the day. All prices are before sales tax.

  • General Admission: starting at $49 per person
  • Add-On: Skywalk: starting at $26 per person
  • Add-On: Meal Ticket: $21 per person
  • Add-On: Zipline: starting at $39 per person
  • Add-On: Helicopter Pontoon Tour: starting at $259 per person
BUILD YOUR BUNDLE

Autumn Adventure Deals

The West Rim’s Autumn Adventure Deals are pre-designed packages that offer savings over the à la carte rates. You can choose from three package options for the Grand Canyon West Rim.

Grand

$64*

+Skywalk
+General Admission

BOOK NOW

Jenna’s Pick

Grander

$85*

+Skywalk
+Meal Ticket
+General Admission

BOOK NOW

Grandest

$313*

+Helicopter Flight +Pontoon Ride
+Skywalk
+General Admission

BOOK NOW

*Rates are the starting prices and are subject to change. Prices are not inclusive of sales tax.

You can purchase tickets online or when you arrive at the West Rim. But it’s best to buy them in advance because you’ll save A LOT of time at the door. The ticket line can take an hour to two hours during peak times!

High-demand experiences like the helicopter tour and the ziplines also have limited availability. And they often sell out a few days in advance.

Things To Do At Grand Canyon West

Your general admission ticket includes a day pass to see the Grand Canyon at Eagle Point and Guano Point. And after undergoing a renovation, Hualapai Point is also back on the general admission tour.

If you’re going on the Skywalk, you’ll do that at Eagle Point. The zipline, which is open seasonally, is at Hualapai Point. And then, the helicopter and pontoon tour leaves from the Aerial Tours Building, near the parking lot.

Eagle Point

Eagle Point is where most guests go first, and it’s the second stop on your self-guided Grand Canyon West Rim tour. Immediately, when you hop off the bus here, you’ll see a majestic view of the Canyon.

Although you can’t see the bottom from this location, it’s pretty much a straight drop-off. So please be careful not to get too close to the edge. And don’t cross the ropes either, as there are fracture points in the rocks.

The Eagle Point sign at the Grand Canyon West Rim
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

Eagle Point is named after a rock formation shaped like an eagle. So when you’re looking out across the Canyon, you’ll see a giant eagle with outstretched wings!

If you’re having trouble finding it, head to the “How Did Eagle Point Get Its Name?” sign. You’ll see a photo there that will show you exactly where to look to spot the eagle.

Native American Village

At Eagle Point, you’ll also find an authentic Native American village. Here, you’ll walk along a path that’ll take you back to a simpler way of life. And you’ll see how tribes like the Hualapai, Navajo, and Hopi built housing, sweat lodges, and stoves.

Photo of a Navajo Hogan at Grand Canyon West
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

It’s a great educational experience for both adults and kids. And at every structure, there’s an informational sign, too. So, you’ll learn how the Native Americans designed them and the spiritual significance behind the materials.

Although you won’t have a view of the Grand Canyon from here, the setting for the village is beautiful! You’ll look out over miles and miles of rolling plains.

On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, head to the theater next to the village for tribal music and dance. Performances are from 10 am until 3 pm.

Grand Canyon West Rim Skywalk

The Skywalk is also at Eagle Point. And I highly recommend going on it if you want to see the bottom of the Canyon and take in even more spectacular views. In my opinion, it’s worth doing at least once – even if you’re scared of heights like me!

Now, if you haven’t heard of it, the Skywalk is a glass bridge that’s 10 feet wide and extends 70 feet over the rim. It’s also roughly 4,000 feet above the floor of the Grand Canyon. And with nothing underneath it for support, it’s quite the adrenaline rush!

GET SKYWALK TICKETS

When you’re on the Skywalk, look to the left to see if you can find a princess kissing her horse in the Canyon. The fastest way to find them is to look for the princess’s red ponytail.

People on the Skywalk at Grand Canyon West
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

There’s no need to be nervous on the Skywalk, though. It can withstand an 8.0 earthquake, winds of 100 mph, and it’s strong enough to hold seventy-one 747 jets. But if you’re still not convinced, you might want to check out this engineering video.

Also, on the sides of the glass bridge, you won’t be able to see through to the bottom. But in the middle part, you can. So if you don’t feel comfortable walking on the see-through areas, stick to the sides. It’ll give you a greater sense of security.

The wait time for the Skywalk can get long! So come on a weekday instead of Saturday and Sunday for the fastest entry times.

Skywalk Rules

Unfortunately, you can’t take your personal belongings on the Skywalk. But you’ll get a complimentary locker to store your things. Just make sure to take your key with you. And don’t worry about remembering your locker number – it’s written on the key!

  • No cameras
  • No cell phones
  • No food or beverages
  • No shoes

Once you’ve stored your stuff, you’ll go through a metal detector and put on some cloth booties. You can keep your shoes on, but the booties go over the bottom of your shoes to prevent scratches to the glass. Hats and sunglasses are also okay to wear on the bridge.

You’re welcome to take your time and enjoy the views from the Skywalk. And there isn’t any time limit imposed either, so feel free to walk back and forth as much as you’d like.

Grand Canyon Skywalk Photos

Although you can’t bring your camera or cell phone onto the bridge, you can still get your photo taken. And the photographers at the Skywalk are really good, too!

They spend a lot of time with each group getting some incredible shots. For instance, they may have you do action poses or lie down on the glass panels.

A photographer taking pictures of visitors on the Skywalk
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

So if you want your picture taken, you’ll need to get in the photo line. However, you won’t be able to access this line until you go through the metal detector.

Currently, photo prices start at $17 per print. Or, if you want all the digital pictures, you can buy a package for $69. You’ll also be able to review your photos once you’re back inside. And, of course, there isn’t a requirement to purchase any of the images.

If you don’t want your picture taken, you can get in the non-photo line for faster entry onto the Skywalk!

Guano Point

When you’re done at Eagle Point, you’ll hop on the shuttle to Guano Point. There, you’ll experience the most spectacular Grand Canyon West Rim views of the entire tour! And you’ll get to see the Colorado River too.

Now, one of the best viewpoints of the river is directly in front of where the bus drops you off. So once you get off the shuttle, walk straight ahead toward the rim. But, be careful here. There aren’t any ropes – only a few signs warning you not to get too close.

A photo of the Grand Canyon West Rim and Colorado River
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

The first time I went, I thought this view was the only thing to see at Guano Point, so I didn’t explore the area. But there’s also a trail that takes you to a historical monument. And trust me – you don’t want to miss this short hike!

Guano Mine & Highpoint Hike

So after you’ve seen the Colorado River viewpoint, head over to Guano Point Cafe. You’ll see a trail in front that’ll lead you to the remnants of an old tramway used for mining guano. It’s not too strenuous of a walk, but there isn’t a rail, so proceed cautiously.

You’ll see more incredible Grand Canyon views on the right as you continue along the path. And then, off to your left, you can climb up a rock formation that’ll give you a 360-degree view. This is the Highpoint Hike, and the views from here are breathtaking, especially at sunset!

Visitors standing on top of rocks at Guano Point
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

The trail ends at the historic head house that would take workers in cable cars across the river to a cave. So while you’re there, try to imagine an old tramway 2,500 feet high and 7,500 feet across!

Check out the Guano Point sign as you get close to the cable head house. You’ll learn some interesting facts about why and how the cave was mined. And you’ll also discover why the tramway no longer exists!

Hualapai Point

Hualapai Point is the first stop on your tour, and it’s home to the Hualapai Ranch. This ranch features an old Western town. And you can even go inside the buildings, like the old-time jail, and take some photos.

There are fun activities for the kiddos, such as a small shooting gallery where you can compete against each other. And a saloon where you can get some cold treats like root beer floats!

The entrance to Hualapai Point at Grand Canyon West
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

Hualapai Point is also where you’ll find the Grand Canyon zipline experience. And hiking and biking trails, too.

Unless you’re going ziplining or have your heart set on some tacos, not as many people get off the bus here. So if you want to explore the town, just know that when you’re ready to get back on the shuttle, it may be standing room only.

Ziplines

If the Skywalk isn’t enough of an adrenaline rush, you can go ziplining at Grand Canyon West! The zip lines go over side canyons, and you can see the Grand Canyon in the distance.

The first run at Hualapai Point is 1100 feet long and 500 feet off the ground, while the second is 2100 feet long and 700 feet off the ground. There are four ziplines at each run, too, so you can ride with your friends and family.

A photo of the zip lines at Hualapai Point
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

Are you interested in riding the ziplines? Check out my new Grand Canyon West zipline guide.

Get your tickets for the ziplines before you go. There’s limited availability, and tickets often sell out.

The ziplining experience is also available year-round now. So no matter when you plan on going, you can book your tickets and reserve your time in advance.

BOOK THE ZIPLINE

Helicopter & Pontoon Tour

The Helicopter and Pontoon tour takes you on a helicopter ride to the bottom of the Grand Canyon – 3,500 feet below the rim! You’ll then get on a guided boat tour. And learn all about the tribe’s history, including why the river is sacred to the Hualapai people.

The boat ride itself is relatively smooth. And it gives you an entirely different perspective of the Canyon, too. For instance, it’s much narrower at the bottom than at the top – which stretches 19 miles in some places!

After the boat ride, you’ll get in a helicopter again to ascend to the top of the rim. Your roundtrip flight time is about 15 minutes, so you’ll see some incredible Canyon views.

This is the only part of the Canyon that you can see by boat. If you’re looking for the whitewater rafting experience, it’s two hours away in Peach Springs, AZ.

Shopping

There’s a fantastic little gift shop inside the Skywalk building at Eagle Point. Here you’ll find a collection of souvenirs, including Skywalk and Grand Canyon West Rim merchandise.

There are hats, t-shirts, mugs, and even sunglasses – in case you forget or lose yours! You’ll also see a unique collection of hand-crafted items from local tribes.

The gift shop inside the Skywalk building
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

There’s also Native Hands at Hualapai Point, which offers souvenirs from local tribes. And on select days at Guano Point, there’s an authentic Native American flea market. Although the market hasn’t been open the last two times I’ve gone, I’ve heard great things!

Dining

There are four eateries at the Grand Canyon West Rim. You’ll find Sky View Restaurant and Skywalk Cafe at Eagle Point and Guano Point Cafe at Guano Point. Gwe Ma’jo Restaurant is also open now at Hualapai Point. All are open daily from 10 am until 4:15 pm.

GET MEAL TICKETS

You can purchase your meal in advance as an add-on option or as part of a bundle package. Or, if you’d prefer, you can pay at any of the restaurants, too.

Meal tickets can be redeemed at the Sky View Restaurant, Guano Point Cafe, or Gwe Ma’jo Restaurant.

Sky View Restaurant

Sky View Restaurant is in the Skywalk Building at Eagle Point, and it overlooks the Skywalk and Grand Canyon. It features floor-to-ceiling windows and full-service sit-down meals for adults and kids.

The restaurant is indoors, so if you’re coming during the summer, this is where you want to go to beat the heat! And if you’re looking for beer and wine, this is also your spot.

Tables inside the Sky View Restaurant
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

To fully experience the incredible view here, I recommend getting a window seat. You can request a window table when you get to the restaurant, but there’s often a wait if you’re coming during peak hours. The last two times I was there, it didn’t take that long, though – an average of about 15 minutes.

There’s a 30-minute time limit inside the restaurant if you’re getting a window table. But don’t worry – Sky View gets your food out fast, so you’ll have plenty of time to eat and enjoy the view.

The Sky View Restaurant offers American favorites like burgers, chicken tenders, and fries. There are also vegetarian options. And a kid’s menu featuring classics like grilled cheese sandwiches and mac and cheese.

Currently, meals cost $21 plus tax for adults and $14 plus tax for kids (10 and younger). All meals include a complimentary soft drink, too. Or you can substitute your soft drink for a bottle of water, coffee, tea, or even hot cocoa.

Sky View Restaurant Menu

The food at the Sky View Restaurant is good! I’m a big fan of the grilled chicken sandwich, and for kids, the grilled cheese is excellent.

Skywalk Cafe

If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat and don’t want to take too much time out of your day, the Skywalk Cafe offers a variety of grab-and-go options.

You’ll find this walk-up restaurant inside the Skywalk building at Eagle Point, next to the gift shop. The Skywalk Cafe features American favorites like hot dogs, nachos, and chili fries.

Skywalk Cafe Menu

In need of a pick-me-up? The Skywalk Cafe also serves coffee. The baristas make lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and more. And there are specialty flavors, too, like vanilla, hazelnut, and caramel.

Guano Point Cafe

The Guano Point Cafe is another walk-up eatery. And you’ll find this restaurant at the last stop on your tour – at Guano Point.

The cafe offers BBQ meals of pulled pork, chicken, and jackfruit (vegetarian option). And some à la carte selections like pasta salad and corn on the cobb.

Although there are fewer choices here than at Sky View Restaurant, the meals come with a lot of food! For instance, you’ll get one main course, three sides, and bottled water. And the pricing is currently the same as Sky View, too – $21 for a meal plus sales tax.

Guano Point Cafe Menu

I’ve only ever eaten at the Sky View Restaurant, so I can’t speak about the food quality at Guano Point. But I can say that the food smelled amazing and I instantly regretted not eating here the last time I went!

Also, the Guano Point Cafe is not an indoor restaurant. So you’ll have to walk up and order, just like at Skywalk Cafe.

But there are a lot of tables outside. And quite a few are under an awning, too, so you can find somewhere to sit with shade. Of course, all the tables look out over the Grand Canyon, offering a stunning view for an afternoon picnic!

Picnic area at Guano Point Cafe
© 2022 Vegas Primer®

Gwe Ma’jo Restaurant

The Gwe Ma’jo Restaurant is at Hualapai Point in the old western town. Here, food selections include tacos, with either chicken or beef, and stew. There’s also a vegetarian protein option available.

The restaurant is indoors (although there are some tables outside too) and features a wild west theme. And on some days, you may even get to see live music performed by local cowboys!

Prices are currently $21 plus sales tax for a meal and come with a fountain drink or bottled water.

Hualapai Point Restaurant Menu

FAQs: West Rim Grand Canyon

Below you’ll find some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Grand Canyon West.

When Is The Best Time To Visit The West Rim?

The best time to visit Grand Canyon West is in the spring and fall months. This is because temperatures are much more moderate. But the ziplining experience is only open during the summertime, so if you want to do that, make sure to come then!

As far as the time of day goes, you’ll see more intense colors in the early morning and later afternoon hours. I noticed a big difference looking at the Canyon around noon compared to 2:30 pm.

Can You Drive Through Grand Canyon West?

Unfortunately, you can’t drive your car through the Grand Canyon West Rim. But on the Hualapai Reservation, there’s complimentary parking outside the main entrance. From there, you’ll take the free shuttle service to the viewpoints and add-on experiences.

Is There A Place To Stay The Night?

If you need overnight accommodations, you can stay on-site at the Cabins at Grand Canyon West. These are located at Hualapai Point. There are cabin options for up to six guests and even front porches to watch the sunrise and sunset.

The cabins often sell out, though, so it’s good to book early if you want to spend the night.

How Long Does It Take To See The West Rim?

You can do it in about three hours if you’re just getting general admission tickets and eating at a restaurant. However, with an add-on experience like the Skywalk or ziplines, it’ll take you roughly four to five hours.

Can You See The Grand Canyon West Rim For Free?

Because the West Rim is on the Hualapai Indian Reservation, you’ll have to pay to see it. But kids four years of age and younger get in for free. And they also get complimentary entry to the Skywalk (as long as they’re old enough to walk on their own).

Can You Visit Hoover Dam And The Grand Canyon In One Day?

Hoover Dam is on the way to the Grand Canyon if you’re coming from Vegas. So you can do both – if you want to get up early!

But in my opinion, it’s better to devote an entire day to the Grand Canyon West Rim. There’s just so much to see and do there. And it’s worth taking the time to explore.

It’s also about eight to nine hours round trip from Las Vegas, so adding a trip to the Hoover Dam makes for a very long day.

Where Is The Whitewater Rafting Experience?

The Grand Canyon whitewater rafting experience is NOT at the West Rim. Instead, it’s in Peach Springs, AZ, which, if you’re driving, is a little less than two hours from the Rim.

The whitewater rafting adventure is on the Colorado River, and it’s run by the Hualapai River Runners. You can choose from one or two-day packages. And with either option, you’ll have an experienced guide that’ll take you rafting, hiking, and climbing.

Are Outside Food & Drink Allowed?

Unfortunately, you can’t bring any outside food or beverages into the West Rim with you. But there are plenty of places once you’re inside to get snacks and drinks.

Be sure to stay hydrated while you’re at the Grand Canyon! You’re in a desert, and it can dehydrate you quickly.

So it’s a good idea to buy some water before you head out on the shuttles. Or before getting in line for the Skywalk, as that can take a while!

What Should I Wear To The Grand Canyon West Rim?

Casual clothes are best, along with tennis shoes or hiking boots. If you’re coming during the spring and fall, it’s good to wear layers. During these months, the temperature can vary a lot during the day.

And because Grand Canyon West is a family-oriented place, there’s a dress code. For instance, visitors must wear shirts and shoes at all times. Also, the following items are prohibited.

  • Clothing with objectionable material, obscene language or graphics
  • See-through attire
  • Clothing that’s excessively torn
  • Apparel that exposes parts of the body that are inappropriate for a family environment

Is It Better To Drive Or Take A Bus Tour To The West Rim?

Because there are so many things to see and do at Grand Canyon West, it’s much better to drive there. If you take a bus tour, you’re on the tour company’s schedule, and it’s a tighter time frame. So you may not get to do the add-on experiences.

If you don’t have a car, you can rent one in Las Vegas. Many of the hotels offer car rental services on site. I always like to check the airlines’ websites, too, as many have competitive rates on car rentals.

A photo of the Grand Canyon at Guano Point

GRAND CANYON WEST RIM

Get Your Tickets Now

Thanks so much for checking out my guide! If you’ve found it helpful, I’d greatly appreciate your support. The button below is my affiliate link where you can get tickets to Grand Canyon West. It doesn’t change the price you’ll pay, but it helps support my work! ♥ Jenna

Buy Now

Conclusion

The West Rim offers phenomenal views and attractions you won’t find anywhere else. And being on the Hualapai reservation provides a different perspective of the Canyon.

My two favorite experiences are the Skywalk and walking on the trail to the Guano Mine. So I recommend putting these on your list if budget and time allow.

I will say, though, that how close people get to the Rim at Guano Point is a little scary. There aren’t any rails or ropes there, and I still get anxious thinking about it. So please keep this in mind when taking pictures.

Because there are so many things to do here, it’s best to leave Vegas in the morning – at the latest, by 9 am.

About Jenna

Hi, I’m Jenna! I’m a Las Vegas local, founder of Vegas Primer, and a VIP Host. I love helping people find the right Vegas experiences for their trips. When I’m not writing, I enjoy creating latte recipes, listening to podcasts, and relaxing in my backyard baby pool.

You May Also Enjoy These Articles…

Helicopters on the tarmac

Grand Canyon Helicopter & Pontoon Tour [2023 Review]

The view from the second tower at the Grand Canyon zip line

Grand Canyon Zipline Guide (With Video Tour)

AREA15 Planning Guide: What To See & Do

The Ultimate Flying Ride

FlyOver Las Vegas: The Ultimate Flying Ride

Tiger sharks swimming at the Mandalay Bay Aquarium

Shark Reef At Mandalay Bay [2023 Guide]

Latest Posts

Grand Canyon Zipline

Helicopter & Pontoon Tour

Piff The Magic Dragon

Quick Links

Sitemap

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

Affiliate Disclosure

Disclaimer

Contact Details

info@vegasprimer.com

9 am – 5 pm PST (Mon – Fri)

  • YouTube
  • Instagram

Copyright © 2017-2023 · Vegas Primer® · All Rights Reserved