Grand Canyon Tickets, Entrance Passes, Prices, Tours, Things to Know
The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous national parks in the USA that covers the vast area of the Colorado River.
The Canyon is 277 miles long, 18 miles wide and over a mile deep, making it one of the most impressive wonders.
Visitors need the best tickets to the Grand Canyon to explore the geographical features and more.
The Grand Canyon tickets offer access to various viewpoints, hiking trails, tours and more.
Read ahead to find out the various ticket options, from single-day passes to adventurous multi-day packages tailored to suit your preferences.
This article also provides information about Grand Canyon tickets, passes, prices, valuable insights, tips and essential information to maximize your visit.
Top 3 Grand Canyon Tickets
Grand Canyon West Rim tour
- Admission tickets to the Grand Canyon, West Rim
- Entry to Hoover Dam Memorial Bridge
- Expert tour guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Breakfast and lunch
- Tour prices: From $159
Grand Canyon South Rim Day Trip
- Entry to Grand Canyon South Rim
- Guided Walking Tour
- Breakfast and water
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Transportation
- Tour prices: $99
Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
- 45-minutes helicopter tour
- Landing in the Grand Canyon
- National park entry fee
- Champagne toast and snack
- Hotel pick up and pick off
- Tour price: $598
A Brief About Grand Canyon
If you plan to visit the Grand Canyon, you need to start with the basics: The Grand Canyon is divided into four regions – North, South, East and West.
This follows the southwest course of the Colorado River.
The South Rim is the most popular area that offers maximum viewpoints and hotels and is easy to access.
On the other hand, 215 miles away lies the North Rim, 1000 feet higher than the South Rim.
Due to heavy snowfall, this Rim is open only from May to October.
This Rim is perfect for adventurous hiking and backcountry camping.
On the west, the Grand Canyon West Rim lies on the tribal lands of Hualapai.
Here, you can enjoy the Grand Canyon Skywalk. Horseshoe Bend, Lake Mead and more.
Grand Canyon East Rim is a lesser-known part of the national park and part of the Navajo Nation.
This part has smaller canyons and fewer tourist spots.
Remember that not all rims fall under the Grand Canyon National Park.
The National Park is a small region between all these rims.
Around the park, you can find four tribes – the Hualapai, Navajo, Havasupai and Hopi.
The reservation rules and policies apply to the Grand Canyon Region.
Grand Canyon Entry Permits vs Package Tours
You can visit the Grand Canyon using an entry permit or booking a package tour.
The entry permit lets you drive through the national park and enjoy viewpoints and sights.
If you wish to camp, hike or enjoy a wide range of activities in the Grand Canyon or stay overnight, you must make separate arrangements.
Getting a hiking or camping permit for the Grand Canyon can be a hassle if you do it at the last minute.
Reservations for hotels, transportation and permits are open six months in advance.
However, a package tour includes entry passes, permits for hiking, transport, a guide, accommodation, guidance and more.
You can book a Grand Canyon tour even at the last minute to save your trip.
These package tours are customizable based on the number of days, activities and part of the canyon you wish to explore.
Important Information About Grand Canyon Tickets
When planning your visit, knowing about the different ticket options is essential.
All visitors to the Grand Canyon need to purchase a basic entry permit.
These permits are available at the gate and online.
They grant access to the breathtaking Grand Canyon itself, allowing you to explore its wonders and marvel at the stunning landscapes.
If you wish to try camping, hiking and other activities, you can get a permit from the Grand Canyon Visitor’s Center.
However, you will have to purchase permits for each activity separately.
On the other hand, you can also visit the Grand Canyon by booking online tours.
You can pick a tour based on the Rim you want to visit, activities you wish to try and the number of days you have.
These online Grand Canyon Tours offer entry passes, permits for activities, guides and transportation – all in one package.
You can maximize your visit by enjoying a night under the stars or taking advantage of the convenient facilities available.
Entrance Passes to the Grand Canyon
Everyone visiting the Grand Canyon needs to have entrance passes.
You can choose from a few varieties of passes, depending on which category you fall into.
Standard Passes: Include access to the South and North Rim of the park for seven days.
The standard pass costs $20 per person and additional $35 for private vehicles and $30 for motorcycles.
This is only the entry permit; however, you must purchase additional passes for activities.
Access Passes: These are for permanent US Citizens with a permanent life-changing disability. These include free entry into the National Park throughout a lifetime.
But the other amenities in the park are paid for.
Military Passes: Two entrance passes are available for current US military members and their dependents, veterans and Gold Star Families of the US Military.
These passes provide no-cost entrance to the park, but the other amenities remain paid for.
Senior Citizen Passes: If you are above 62, you can choose between lifetime and annual passes.
These passes facilitate reduced entry costs and 50 % discounts on some amenity fees.
4th Grade Pass: If your child is in grade 4, you can get this pass and enjoy reduced entrance prices and transportation facilities!
Interagency Passes: with these in hand, you can plan a visit to three parks with one pass.
Annual Pass: If you plan to visit the Grand Canyon more than three times in the next 12 months, this pass is for you.
Remember that purchasing your entrance passes on the day of your trip is not the best idea. It is better if you buy it online and ahead of time.
Why Buy Online Tickets To The Grand Canyon
Online Tickets to the Grand Canyon save you from the hassle of purchasing separate entry passes, activity passes, hotels, transport and guides.
You can arrange everything in one booking when you purchase the Grand Canyon tour packages online.
When you buy your tickets online, you skip the waiting time on individual ticket counters and save over three to four hours of time.
While the accommodation and activity permits need advance reservation, you can book them last minute through online tickets to Grand Canyon.
Online tickets offer customization options and discounts you can not find offline.
How To Book Online Tickets To The Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon tickets are easy and convenient to purchase online.
Head to the ticket booking page and select the Grand Canyon tickets that suit you best.
Choose your preferred date, time and visitor details and proceed with the payment.
Once the payment is done, you will receive the e-ticket in your email.
While most of the time, you do not need a hard copy of the Grand Canyon tickets, check the official park website to make sure.
Just present the e-ticket from your phone/ or the printed copy and enjoy visiting the Grand Canyon.
Grand Canyon National Park Tickets Prices
An entry permit to the Grand Canyon costs $55, including individual and vehicle passes.
A full-day sightseeing tour of the Grand Canyon, including transport and passes, starts from $100.
Private tours start from $208 and helicopter tours cost $169.
Here is the list of Grand Canyon tour prices.
Type of Grand Canyon Tickets and Tours
There are various kinds of Grand Canyon tickets and tours available online.
These tours include entry permits, tickets for all activities you want to try, transport, guide, food and more.
You can find a range of options from a day trip to a full week trip to explore the entire park.
Before you visit the Grand Canyon, learn about the different tickets available.
Here is a brief on the types of Grand Canyon tickets available.
Grand Canyon West Rim Entry Permit
The Grand Canyon West Rim belongs to the Hualapai tribe.
You must purchase a Grand Canyon West Rim Entry Permit to access attractions like the famous Skywalk and Guano Point.
This permit grants visitors vehicular access to Grand Canyon West, which is 125 miles away from the South Rim Village.
The permit allows you to drive yourself or join a guided coach tour.
Plan a full-day trip, as this permit is valid for one day and offers additional entry to the skywalk and meal options.
- Entry to Grand Canyon West
- Skywalk Ticket
- Lunch
- Hop-on hop-off transportation
- Access to 2 Viewpoints
From $53
Grand Canyon South Rim Tour
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon offers some of the most spectacular views of this natural wonder. Miles of trails along the rim provide stunning glimpses into the colorful canyon with its buttes, spires and layered rock walls.
Going on a guided tour makes seeing the highlights of the South Rim easy and informative.
Knowledgeable guides will take you by bus to famous viewpoints like Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station and Hermits Rest.
Along the way, they share fascinating details about the canyon’s geology, history and ecosystem.
- Admission to the National Park
- Breakfast, lunch and water
- Guided Walking Tour
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transportation
From $99
Book This TourGrand Canyon West Rim Tour
The West Rim is located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation and offers spectacular views of the awe-inspiring landscape.
The tour’s highlight is visiting the famous Skywalk – a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that allows you to stand 4,000 feet above the canyon floor.
Other stops on the full-day tour may include Guano Point, Eagle Point and an authentic Native American village.
The tour provides opportunities for photos at several scenic outlooks along the rim.
While purchasing this ticket, you can choose to explore the skywalk or even try a helicopter tour for an additional price.
- Admission tickets
- Expert Tour guide
- Hotel pickup and drop-off service
- Entry to Hoover Dam
- VIP bus access at Grand Canyon
- Breakfast and lunch
From $159
Book This TourGrand Canyon Day Trip
A full-day tour of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim starts with a guided bus tour from your hotel to Grand Canyon National Park.
The tour has multiple stops at overlooks for the perfect picture opportunity.
After lunch at one of the restaurants inside the park, the tour heads out to sites like the Yavapai Geology Museum and the historic buildings of Hermit’s Rest.
With 8-10 hours to explore, a full-day Grand Canyon tour ensures you truly see the grandeur and scale that photos can hardly capture.
The Grand Canyon full-day trip costs $186 for visitors over 16 years and $164 for children below 15 years.
Private Grand Canyon Full-Day Trip
On this full-day Private Grand Canyon tour from Sedona, witness the sunset that has inspired multiple artworks and continues to inspire every tourist.
Witness the geological history written across the canyon and its rocks, which Native Americans inhabited.
During the full-day tour, explore multiple viewpoints and hiking trails and enjoy a meal in the Grand Canyon Village before the end of the trip.
This Grand Canyon tour costs $230 for all visitors over 16 years of age.
Children between four and 15 years old can join the tour for $208.
Infants under three years of age are not permitted on this tour.
- Entry fees and permits
- Pick-up and drop service
- Hotel pick-up
- Expert guide
- Dinner
From $230
Book This TourMulti-Day Tour of Grand Canyon and Antelope Canyon
On this multi-day tour, you can explore the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. You will start your journey at Antelope Canyon and be guided by an experienced Navajo guide to see the stunning rock walls and formations.
Then, take in the majestic views of the Horseshoe Bend, a horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River, after a 0.8-mile hike along a sandy trail.
End your trip with the world-renowned South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Watch as its layers of red rock seem to shimmer and change colors in the light!
Visiting Upper Antelope Canyon costs $338, while visiting Lower Antelope Canyon costs $379.
A private multi-day tour costs $1596
- Entrance to Antelope Canyon
- Admission to Grand Canyon South Rim
- Entrance to Horseshoe bend
- Round-trip transportation facilities
- Hotel pick and drop-off
From $338
Buy This TicketGrand Canyon Railway Tickets
Step back in time on the Grand Canyon Railway tour to the South Rim.
This nostalgic train ride takes you on a historic railway route dating from 1901 on lovingly restored early 20th-century diesel locomotives.
Sit back in comfortable vintage train cars as canyon country vistas roll by the window on the 65-mile journey.
On arrival, spend the day exploring Grand Canyon National Park – snap photos at the best scenic overlooks or watch the sunset.
With its period décor and welcoming conductors, the Railway tour offers a unique South Rim experience evoking the early days of Western rail travel.
- National park entrance fees
- 1-way standard or first-class train ticket
- Guided tour of the South and East Rims
- Grand Canyon Village Tour
- Hotel pickup
From $273
Buy This TicketGrand Canyon Helicopter Tour
The deluxe helicopter tour with floor-to-ceiling windows , 180-degree views is the perfect way to explore the canyon.
On this 45-minute flight, you can soar over the desert landscape and watch the Colorado River and multicolored rock formations.
Highlights may include flying over the famous glass Skywalk bridge and the ancient Indian ruins at Tusayan.
With no security lines or big crowds, this VIP aerial tour allows you to take in breathtaking canyon views in a style matched by no other.
Grand Canyon White Water Rafting Ticket
Grand Canyon White Water Rafting lets you travel downstream with guides through rapids like Horn Creek, Granite, Hermit and Crystal.
This challenging ride offers heart-pumping twists and turns that showcase the canyon’s most unique geological formations of beautiful colored rock.
Between rapids, relax, revel in the glorious desert scenery and watch for diverse wildlife, including bighorn sheep, coyotes and various bird species.
Stop halfway for a tasty riverside lunch prepared by the guides.
With powerful class IV-V rapids offering non-stop fun, this tour is the ultimate Grand Canyon adventure, perfect for thrill-seekers.
- White Water Rafting tour
- Knowledgeable guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop service
From $671
Buy This TicketHow To Reach Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon allows visitors to enter through the South, West and North Rim.
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most accessible entrance.
The closest airport to the South Rim is Phoenix International Airport.
There are multiple ways to reach the Grand Canyon and its three rims.
If you visit the Grand Canyon from cities like Las Vegas, Williams, Sedona and Phoenix., multiple-day tour options are available.
Visitors can take helicopters, trains or bus trips from these cities to reach the Grand Canyon.
Helicopters to Grand Canyon
Helicopters are a popular option for traveling to the Grand Canyon.
Air tickets to the Grand Canyon range from $169 to $558 and include various activities.
There are various helicopter tour options, like
- Las Vegas To Grand Canyon Helicopter
- Helicopter to South Rim
- Helicopter to West Rim
- Grand Canyon Discover Air Tour
Railway Tickets to Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Railway tours take visitors from Williams and Sedona, costing between $102 and $331.
You can get railway tickets to Grand Canyon from Williams, Flagstaff and Sedona.
Bus Tickets to Grand Canyon
Regular bus tours are available from Las Vegas, Williams, Flagstaff and Phoenix.
A Bus tour to the Grand Canyon from any of these cities can cost $95 to $170.
The most popular bus tours to the Grand Canyon are:
- Las Vegas to Grand Canyon west bus tour with a guided walk
- Las Vegas to Grand Canyon South Rim Full day trip by bus
- Las Vegas to Grand Canyon west rim with Hoover Dam bus tour
- One-way shuttle to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, Williams or Tusayan
What To Expect In Grand Canyon
Visiting the Grand Canyon promises awe-inspiring natural beauty and unforgettable experiences.
Prepare for breathtaking views of the vast canyon carved by the Colorado River over millions of years.
The Grand Canyon offers various trails for hikers of all levels, each unveiling unique perspectives.
Expect diverse wildlife encounters, from soaring eagles to elusive mule deer.
Sunrise and sunset bring magical colors to the canyon walls, creating a photographer’s paradise.
Be ready for changing weather; the canyon’s elevation results in temperature variations, so pack layers.
During peak seasons, anticipate crowds, especially at popular viewpoints. Plan accordingly and consider exploring less crowded areas for a more intimate experience.
For adventure seekers, helicopter tours and river rafting expeditions are available, providing an exhilarating perspective of the canyon.
The Grand Canyon is a designated International Dark Sky Park, making it perfect for stargazing—prepare to be mesmerized by the celestial display.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, avid hiker or casual tourist, the Grand Canyon guarantees an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most iconic landscapes.
Things To Do In Grand Canyon
Things to do
Scenic Drives
Drive along the South Rim and North Rim to capture awe-inspiring vistas. Don’t miss the Desert View Drive for incredible overlooks and photo opportunities.
Camping
Spend a night under the stars by camping in the Grand Canyon. Both developed and backcountry camping options provide a unique and immersive experience.
Rafting Trips
Embark on a thrilling rafting adventure along the Colorado River. Guided rafting trips allow you to witness the canyon’s beauty from a completely different angle.
Hiking Trails
Explore the numerous hiking trails that cater to all fitness levels.
The South Rim trails, like Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail, provide stunning panoramic views.
Sunset at Hopi Point
Catch a mesmerizing sunset at Hopi Point on the South Rim.
The changing colors of the canyon during sunset create a magical atmosphere.
Junior Ranger Program
If you visit with kids, consider participating in the Junior Ranger Program.
It’s an interactive and educational way for children to learn about the canyon and its preservation.
Helicopter Tours
Get a bird’s-eye view of the Grand Canyon by taking a helicopter tour.
It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the vastness and geological wonders of the canyon.
Stargazing
The Grand Canyon has been designated an International Dark Sky Park.
On clear nights, the stargazing opportunities are exceptional. Join a ranger-led program or simply lay back and enjoy the celestial display.
Visitor Centers and Museums
Learn about the canyon’s geology, history and wildlife at the various visitor centers and museums scattered throughout the park.
Yavapai Observation Station and the Grand Canyon Visitor Center are particularly informative
FAQs about Grand Canyon tickets
1. Where do you enter the Grand Canyon?
Visitors enter the Grand Canyon through the South Rim and North Rim.
South Rim is open throughout the year, while North Rim is closed during the winter.
The South Entrance to the Grand Canyon is 6 miles north of Tusayan, Arizona.
The park’s North Entrance is 30 miles south of Jacob Lake, Arizona.
2. Can you just walk into the Grand Canyon?
You can not just walk into the Grand Canyon.
Visitors need to purchase entry permits or hike permits to enter any rim.
Book a Grand Canyon tour online if you prefer to try various activities.
3. How much does it cost to visit the Grand Canyon?
The basic entry permit into the Grand Canyon costs $20 for an individual, $30 for motorcycles and $35 for vehicles.
Apart from the entry fee, tourists must pay for experiences like hiking, rafting, guided tours, etc.
Online tickets to the Grand Canyon offer tours inclusive of entry permits and various other benefits.
Depending on the type of activity or tour selected, the cost to visit Grand Canyon can range from $56 to $2500.
Popular activities like a helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon cost $169 and white water rafting costs $599.
4. Can you see the Grand Canyon for free?
Children below the age of 15 enjoy free entry to the Grand Canyon.
Other visitors must buy an entrance ticket to the Grand Canyon to enter the national park.
However, Grand Canyon National Park offers free admission to everyone for five days.
You can enjoy free entry to the park on January 16, April 22, August 4, September 24 and November 11.
Note: On the above-stated days, visitors do not have to pay an entrance fee, but reservations, camping and tour prices would still apply.
5. Do I need a reservation to enter Grand Canyon National Park?
Reservations are not necessary to enter Grand Canyon National Park.
However, reservations are required for campgrounds and timed tours and activities.
If you book your tours and tickets to the Grand Canyon online, your entry is reserved and does not need any further hassle.
6. Do you need tickets for the Grand Canyon?
Individuals must buy an entry permit to visit the Grand Canyon National Park.
Tourists need extra tickets to Grand Canyon tours and experiences.
For a more convenient experience, get your Grand Canyon tour tickets online, including entry permits and experience in one ticket.
7. How much do kids’ tickets cost for the Grand Canyon?
Children below the age of 15 enjoy free admission to the Grand Canyon.
However, they need tickets to take part in specific activities and experiences.
Online Grand Canyon tickets provide a discounted price for children.
8. Can you buy tickets at the Grand Canyon West rim?
Grand Canyon West Rim tickets can be bought at the ticket terminal and the Chevron in Dolan Springs.
However, it is difficult to secure the entry pass due to high demand and huge crowds.
Hence, we suggest buying the Grand Canyon West Rim admission tickets online.
9. Do you need tickets for Skywalk Grand Canyon?
Visitors must purchase a general admission ticket for Skywalk to enter the observation deck.
Visitors on tour do not have to buy separate tickets for the Skywalk.
Some of the best tours to enjoy the skywalk are the West Rim Tour with Skywalk, Bus Tour with Hoover Dam Stop and West Rim helicopter tour.
10. How much is the ticket for the Grand Canyon Skywalk?
West Rim tours with the Skywalk option costs $85.
If you want a premium helicopter tour experience and a Skywalk option, it would cost $552
11. How to book tickets for River Rafting in the Grand Canyon?
You can book tickets for River Rafting in the Grand Canyon online.
There are various river rafting tours available, like
– The Grand Canyon White Water Rafting trip from Las Vegas
– Grand Canyon Helicopter Flight with Colorado River Float or Kayak trip
– Self-drive 1-day Grand Canyon whitewater rafting tour
12. Can you buy Grand Canyon Railway tickets on the same day?
Guests can book their Grand Canyon Railway tickets on the same day of the tour.
However, the tours sell out early due to the high demand and the number of participants.
We suggest booking your Grand Canyon Railway tickets in advance to secure them.
13. What entrances are open to the Grand Canyon?
Visitors enter the Grand Canyon through the South Rim and North Rim.
South Rim is open throughout the year, while North Rim is closed during the winter.
The South Entrance to the Grand Canyon is 6 miles north of Tusayan, Arizona.
The park’s North Entrance is 30 miles south of Jacob Lake, Arizona.
There are various routes to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, Williams, Sedona and Flagstaff.
14. Is a day trip to the Grand Canyon worth it?
A day trip to the Grand Canyon is worth it because of its scenic viewpoints, hiking trails and tour options.
Grand Canyon is a great option for individuals looking for adventure and a unique getaway.
To make your visit worthwhile, ensure you have your tickets to Grand Canyon pre-booked.
Image: Justin Wang on Unsplash