2 Days in the Grand Canyon

In 2020, my cousin and I did a western USA road trip and spent 2 days in the Grand Canyon! The Grand Canyon was definitely the main event during this two week road trip, other than visiting my other cousin in Colorado.

I’ll review how we spent our 2 days in the Grand Canyon, and also offer additional suggestions as our preferences and budgets can differ. There is no doubt the Grand Canyon sees thousands of visitors from all over the world as this natural wonder is a bucket list destination!

Before you dive in, I want to be transparent: this article includes affiliate links. This simply means that if you click on the link and make a purchase, I may earn a commission. Rest assured, the article includes my genuine advice and it won’t cost you anything extra. Your support is greatly appreciated. Happy reading!

Day One | My 2 Days in the Grand Canyon

Arriving to the Grand Canyon

My cousin and I drove from Florida, since that year flying was too difficult. We stopped a few times along the way, as you can imagine, it’s a long drive! White Sands National Park was the stop just before the Grand Canyon and I LOVED it. There are 8.5 hours between the two national parks, so we drove most of it the day before and pulled into the Grand Canyon Village mid morning.

The Grand Canyon has multiple areas you can explore, but the south rim is the most visited and has the best tourist infrastructure. We started at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center to get a lay of the land. We made note of some activities as well as where to watch the sunrise and sunset.

We decided to book a helicopter ride for later than afternoon to get the best views of the Grand Canyon! In the meantime, we explored the viewpoint just past the Grand Canyon Visitor Center called Mather Point.

The views are amazing and it doesn’t take much effort from the Visitor Center area to be standing in awe!

Even though we were there in October, the days warm up a lot! There is some shade along the rim trail, but there are definitely parts with minimal covering! Depending on the time of year, it could get unbearably hot.

After we enjoyed the views for a while, we headed to the hotel we booked just outside the park. Since we were road tripping, we were booking everything last minute. This worked okay for us since October is not a busy time, but if you plan to visit during high season you will need to book in advance!

Helicopter Ride

I had never done a helicopter ride, so I think I was more excited than my cousin. Then again, she jumps out of planes for fun, with a parachute, of course!

This is not a cheap activity, but I did consider it worth it! I knew I wanted to see this bucket list destination from the air to really take in its grandeur and I wasn’t disappointed!

It helped to have a clear and sunny day, which I’d imagine is fairly common. However, we booked the same day, so we were able to ensure the weather was good! If you visit during high season though, I’d suggest booking in advance.

Check Availability: 45-minute Helicopter Flight Over the Grand Canyon from Tusayan, Arizona

Viewpoints and Sunset

With only 2 days in the Grand Canyon, there are few breaks during daylight! Especially in October, when we were there. The weather isn’t too bad during the day so there’s no reason not to be out exploring and sunset happens sooner since the long summer days are gone.

Once the helicopter ride was finished, we headed back into the Grand Canyon and explored various viewpoints in the direction of the sunset. The Grand Canyon Visitor Center suggests Yavapai Point, Lipan Point, and Hopi Point for sunset.

We rolled up to Hopi Point just after 5PM. After taking some photos and enjoying the views, we made our way further to the west and stopped at Mohave Point to finally watch the sun fully set. While the sunset was beautiful, the moonrise was equally impressive and with the golden hour hues it was possibly more magical!

I love chasing a sunset, especially when the location calls for it! The Tinos, Greece sunsets are some of my fondest travel memories. So don’t skip the sunsets and I’d say for the Grand Canyon it’s worth it to catch the sunrise as well!

Day Two | 2 Days at the Grand Canyon

Sunrise at the Grand Canyon

I have to admit, I’m not a morning person! Waking up for sunrises is difficult for me, though I have on random days headed to the beach on the east coast of Florida and those sunrises have always been worth it! So it didn’t take any convincing for me to wake up for the Grand Canyon sunrise!

The hotel we stayed at was not doing a traditional breakfast setup since it was 2020, but we were able to get a takeout breakfast instead, which worked perfectly! We bundled up since it was early October and the temperatures were cold for us.

The drive to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center from our hotel is less than 15 minutes. On our first day, we had noted the recommended spots for the sunrise: Yavapai Point, Mather Point, and Navajo Point. We arrived early and easily found a good spot at Mather Point.

I’m not sure exactly when first light was, but it was still fairly dark when we arrived at about 6AM, but not so dark that we needed a flashlight. We sat and watched the light intensify until the sun finally rose into sight at 6:31AM.

Of course, the sunrise time will change depending on the time of year, but it’s definitely worth the early wake up call! It’s also worth noting Mather Point is right behind the visitor center so it could get packed during high season. There were people around when my cousin and I were there, but it wasn’t bad!

Walk Along the Rim

Now that the sun had risen, we started to walk along the rim trail. The various viewpoints in the morning light were worth admiring. There weren’t many people as we walked farther from the visitor center, which allowed us to take photos in peace as well!

Bike Rental

My cousin decided she wanted to run 13 miles along the rim. While she ran, I decided to rent a bike and explore the rim trail more!

I rented a regular bike, but they do have electric bikes available. The rental prices aren’t bad and the place is conveniently located by the visitor center and close to the rim trail.

I knew I would have a couple hours as my cousin got in her run, so I stopped often to take photos. After making my way to the South Kaibab Trailhead, I turned around. There were a ton of people in this area both heading down the trail and some returning. I also saw some deer in this area, which is surprising considering the amount of people around!

Eventually, I followed the trail more inland and through a forest. There were more hills in this portion and I didn’t have an electric bike so it turned into a workout. I located my cousin and stayed near her as she finished up her run.

Grand Canyon Rim

After lunch, we used the shuttle to explore past where we saw the sunset the night before. Hermit’s Rest was absolutely beautiful and worth visiting, but it’s only accessible by foot, bike, or shuttle from March to November.

I think we saw just about every viewpoint along the rim, whether on foot, bike, or car. We caught both the sunrise and sunset, and let’s not forget the amazing helicopter views! We packed our 2 days in the Grand Canyon, but never felt rushed or exhausted.

While it worked well for us, we didn’t hike down into the canyon which is something I’d suggest doing if you’re capable! I’ll review some hikes to consider and some other alternatives so your 2 days in the Grand Canyon can be perfect for you!

Additional Ideas for Your 2 Days in the Grand Canyon

Hikes

While my cousin and I walked, biked and she ran the rim trail, we didn’t do any other hike. Unless, of course, you plan to run 13 miles like my cousin, you will definitely have time for a hike in your 2 days at the Grand Canyon.

There is a good reason why I saw a lot of people at South Kaibab Trail. It’s an easy to moderate hike, but offers great views. This is perfect if you want to descend a short way into the canyon.

The most popular hike is along the Bright Angel Trail. Since it is an out-and-back trail, it can be as long and difficult as you decide. However, the National Parks website warns that the walk down is easy and the return is far more difficult than you’d think. They actually said the return will take twice as much time.

In your 2 days in the Grand Canyon, exploring the rim trail is a must and you can easily add the South Kaibab Trail or part of the Bright Angel Trail. If you don’t do the helicopter ride, you could make one day dedicated to the rim and the other dedicated to a long hike.

Hikes Based on Fitness Level

Beginner (Short & Easy)

• Rim Trail (Flat, great for casual walkers)
• South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point (Short but rewarding views)

Intermediate (Moderate Distance & Elevation)

• Bright Angel Trail to Indian Garden (Doable with good pacing, water stops available)
• Grandview Trail to Horseshoe Mesa (More rugged but stunning views)

Advanced (Long, Steep, Strenuous)

• North Kaibab Trail to Ribbon Falls (High elevation change, best for experienced hikers)
• South Kaibab Trail to the River & Back (Challenging, no water, requires very early start)

Tour Options

Booking a tour is not required, but it can make things easier and tour guides can also provide valuable insight! There are also some experiences that are bucket list worthy, like a helicopter ride, which require booking a tour.

The below tours are all highly rated and worth considering. I absolutely loved the helicopter ride and the amazing views offered, but I know that’s not for everyone. Booking a tour can take an hour or up to a day, depending on which you choose, but all offer guided views and can add richness to your 2 days in the Grand Canyon.

Indoor Experiences

Most of us don’t head to the Grand Canyon to be inside, however, if you visit in the summer, you will want reprieve from the heat! Below are some experiences to consider if you want an indoor break without venturing outside the park.

Yavapai Geology Museum and the Visitor Center are two obvious options. Enjoying a meal at El Tovar is another option to consider, because you need to eat anyway! If the weather is nice like it was for us, these options aren’t necessary. However, come the intense summer heat, these are great options to consider for the middle of the day!

Weather & Best Time to Visit the Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon experiences a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions depending on the season and elevation. The time of year will really dictate your 2 days in the Grand Canyon.

Summers (June–August) can be extremely hot, especially below the rim, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C) in the inner canyon. The South Rim, at a higher elevation, remains cooler, averaging highs in the 80s°F (27–30°C). Monsoon season typically arrives in July and August, bringing afternoon thunderstorms that can create sudden flash floods.

Winters (December–February) can be quite cold, with snow blanketing the rim and temperatures dropping below freezing. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

• Summer is the best choice for those looking to raft the Colorado River or explore the North Rim, but be prepared for high temperatures and larger crowds.
• Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are ideal for hiking, with comfortable daytime temperatures and cooler nights. These seasons also bring fewer tourists compared to the busy summer months.
• If you visit in the winter, you’ll enjoy a peaceful, snow-dusted canyon with stunning views, but some trails and facilities may be limited.

Season	South Rim (7,000 ft)	Inner Canyon (Phantom Ranch, 2,500 ft)	North Rim (8,000 ft)
Spring (Mar-May)	Highs: 50–70°F Lows: 20–40°F	Highs: 70–90°F Lows: 45–60°F	Highs: 50–60°F Lows: 20–35°F
Summer (Jun-Aug)	Highs: 80–85°F Lows: 45–55°F	Highs: 100–110°F Lows: 70–80°F	Highs: 70–75°F Lows: 40–50°F
Fall (Sep-Nov)	Highs: 50–75°F Lows: 20–45°F	Highs: 70–95°F Lows: 50–65°F	Highs: 50–65°F Lows: 20–40°F
Winter (Dec-Feb)	Highs: 40–50°F Lows: 15–25°F	Highs: 55–65°F Lows: 35–45°F	Highs: 30–40°F Lows: 10–20°F

Grand Canyon Itinerary Options

Below are two itinerary options for 2 days in the Grand Canyon. The left is what my cousin and I did. It was relaxing, but full and included both a sunset and sunrise as well as helicopter views of the canyon!

The option on the right removes the helicopter and includes time for a moderate hike into the canyon, but otherwise is at a relaxing pace.

Where to Stay at the Grand Canyon

When it comes to staying at the Grand Canyon, there are two areas to consider! You can stay inside the park, or you can stay just outside the entrance in Tusayan.

Staying inside the park will generally require advance reservations and more money. Though hotels in Tusayan are not cheap either. If you’re on a tight budget, you might need to stay in Flagstaff, about an hour away by car, or choose the camping option!

If you do choose to camp, you will need to reserve well in advance. The official website allows up to six months in advance and it’s also worth noting that some campgrounds close seasonally.

My cousin and I didn’t book anything in advance when on our Western USA road trip, so we ended up staying in Tusayan at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Grand Canyon. The price wasn’t cheap for what you get, but it was cheaper than other decent places available.

With limited options in a highly visited area, the hotel options are not amazing. They are all rather inflated for what you get, but the proximity to the Grand Canyon is worth it.

I tried to capture the price range, but some could be more or less during high or low season.

Nearby Attractions

When my cousin and I left the Grand Canyon, we headed to Horseshoe Bend and then onto Monument Valley. Antelope Canyon was closed at the time, but it’s definitely a worthwhile stop if you head that way!

If you are planning a road trip, below are some nearby attractions to consider!

Within 1-2 Hours

• Williams, AZ (1 hr, 60 miles)
  Historic Route 66 town with shops, restaurants, and the Grand Canyon Railway.
• Flagstaff, AZ (1 hr 30 min, 80 miles)
  A vibrant mountain town with museums, breweries, and outdoor activities.
• Walnut Canyon National Monument (1 hr 35 min, 95 miles)
  Ancient cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people.
• Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument (1 hr 45 min, 92 miles)
  A dramatic volcanic landscape formed by an eruption 900 years ago.

Within 2-3 Hours

• Sedona, AZ (2 hr, 115 miles)
  Stunning red rock formations, hiking trails, and spiritual vortex sites.
• Wupatki National Monument (1 hr 30 min, 76 miles)
  Ruins of ancient Puebloan villages amid a desert landscape.
• Little Colorado River Gorge (3 hr, 123 miles)
  A dramatic canyon carved by the Little Colorado River.
• Petrified Forest National Park (3 hr, 190 miles)
  Unique landscape filled with colorful petrified wood and badlands formations.
• Horseshoe Bend (2 hr 21 min, 135 miles)
  Iconic bend in the Colorado River near Page, AZ.
• Antelope Canyon (2 hr 22 min, 140 miles)
  World-famous slot canyon known for its stunning light beams and smooth rock formations.

2 Days in the Grand Canyon

I hope this was helpful as you put together your 2 days in the Grand Canyon itinerary! My cousin and I enjoyed our time there and I was happy to finally cross it off my bucket list! The Grand Canyon is truly magnificent and so much more grand than you can imagine.

I hope you have the best time exploring one of America’s most famous national parks!