Gear up for an incredible family adventure at the Grand Canyon! This natural wonder, stretching over 277 miles and plunging more than a mile deep, is perfect for families who love the outdoors. Packed with exciting hikes, family activities, and stunning vistas, our guide makes your trip planning simple, covering the best times to visit, kid-friendly trails, rest stops, dining, and lodging. Get ready for a stress-free, memorable trip to the Grand Canyon with kids!
When to Visit the Grand Canyon
The ideal times to visit the Grand Canyon with kids are spring and fall, offering milder weather and fewer crowds. Although beautiful year-round, summer can be hot and crowded, while winter may be too chilly for little ones. Explore our guide to the top 5 reasons to visit the Grand Canyon in the fall for more seasonal tips.
Where to Go: North vs. South Rim
The South Rim is more easily accessible and equipped with family-friendly amenities like Grand Canyon Village, ranger-led activities, museums, restaurants, a free park shuttle, and nearby lodging options, making it perfect for first-timers and repeat visitors. For a quieter, more remote experience, consider the peaceful North Rim.
Activities for Visiting the Grand Canyon with Kids
Hike Family-Friendly Trails
A trip to the Grand Canyon isn’t complete without hiking around the rim and checking out some of the best viewpoints. These are some of the best kid-friendly hikes in the Grand Canyon with kids:
South Rim Trail
This 13-mile paved path near the Visitor Center is perfect for families, even those with strollers. The walkway offers stunning canyon views along the South Rim, connecting popular photo spots and viewpoints. Stretching from Hermit’s Rest to the South Kaibab Trail, you can explore as much or as little as you like and use the park’s free shuttle service to hop between different points. We recommend hiking the 2.5-mile stretch from the Visitor’s Center to Grand Canyon Village for a rewarding scoop of ice cream. The walk takes about an hour with stops and immerses you in the breathtaking beauty of the canyon.
Trail of Time
Situated along the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, this 2.8-mile-long paved trail offers a journey through the past. Designed as a geologic timeline, every meter of the trail represents one million years of the Grand Canyon’s geologic past. As you walk along the Rim Trail, you encounter exhibits that showcase the evolving geology of the area, complete with scopes for observing rock layers within the canyon. Stretching from the Yavapai Geology Museum to Maricopa Point, this paved path is a fusion of education and natural beauty, making for a fascinating stroll.
Bright Angel Trail
Set out on the popular 9.5-mile Bright Angel Trail from the Grand Canyon Village, rich in history from the canyon’s Indigenous Peoples to early miners and explorers. For a more comfortable hike with fewer crowds, start around 8:30 a.m. The trail, featuring natural stone tunnels and shaded spots, has built-in steps in some parts for easy navigation, though caution is needed on rugged and narrow sections. Families can hike as far as they’re comfortable, with key rest or turn-around points like the Second Tunnel, the Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse, and the Three-Mile Resthouse, offering water and restrooms for a refreshing break.
Visit the Yavapai Museum
You’ll spot the Yavapai Geology Museum along the Rim Trail near the Visitor Center. Located at Yavapai Point, one of the most scenic spots along the South Rim, the museum offers stunning panoramic canyon views. Inside, interactive exhibits and educational displays bring the canyon’s geological story to life, explaining how its majestic layers were formed over millions of years. The large picture windows provide a perfect vantage point to gaze at the canyon while comparing the real views with the geological explanations. It’s an ideal stop for families, offering an informative and visual experience that enhances understanding of the Grand Canyon’s grandeur. The museum and bookstore are free to enter, and the educational value makes it a must-visit spot for those looking to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of this natural wonder.
Enjoy a Picnic at Shoshone Point
Enjoy a delightful family outing by packing a picnic and stroll to Shoshone Point, a serene spot overlooking the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Under Canvas offers the convenience of nutritious, grab-n-go lunches, perfect for families planning a day of exploration. Shoshone Point, located just 10 minutes southeast of the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, provides a peaceful retreat from the busier areas of the park. The journey to the point begins at a trailhead with ample parking and leads you on a mile-long, flat, dirt-packed hike, ideal for families. Upon reaching Shoshone Point, you’ll find picnic tables, fire pits, grills, and restroom facilities, making it an excellent spot for a relaxing family picnic. Remember to bring plenty of water, as there are no water fountains along this trail, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Grand Canyon away from the crowds.
Join the Junior Ranger Program
The Junior Ranger Program offers a fun and educational way for kids ages four and up to discover the Grand Canyon’s nature and history through interactive activities and ranger-led talks. Families can grab an activity book at the Grand Canyon Conservancy Main Store, Yavapai Geology Museum, or Kolb Studio. Kids learn about conservation while exploring the park and earn a special Junior Ranger badge for completing the program, fostering a sense of accomplishment and a lasting connection to the Grand Canyon.
Take a Private Sightseeing Tour
Experience the best of Grand Canyon National Park with the guidance of an experienced, professional guide. Dive into the rich history, culture, geology, wildlife, and flora & fauna of the area as your guide leads you through iconic sights like Grand Canyon Village, Yavapai Point, Mather Point, and more. This guided tour of the Grand Canyon includes transportation, park entrance fees, a spotting scope for viewing, snacks, water, lunch, and beverages. Ideal for groups of one to four people, with no minimum age requirement, it’s perfect for the entire family.
Stargaze in the Grand Canyon’s Dark Skies
Experience the magic of stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the world at the Grand Canyon. Recognized as a certified International Dark Sky Park, this majestic destination boasts exceptionally dark, well-protected skies, offering pristine night sky views. Whether you choose to gaze at the stars from the canyon rim or enjoy the celestial display at Under Canvas Grand Canyon, both kids and adults are in for a truly enchanting experience. The Grand Canyon’s clear, unpolluted skies provide an ideal backdrop for unforgettable stargazing moments.
Enjoy Camp Programming at Under Canvas Grand Canyon
Connect with family in the great outdoors with an array of complimentary activities, from scavenger hunts and guided hikes to creative arts and crafts like birdhouse designing and canvas painting. As the evening sets in, gather around the fire for delicious nightly s’mores, stargazing, and the soothing sounds of live acoustic music. Enjoy a mix of fun and entertainment with trivia, bingo, movie screenings, and various outdoor games. Learn more about the exciting programming planned during your stay at check-in. Our on-site Guest Experience Coordinators are always ready to assist, ensuring you make the most of on-site activities and off-site adventures.
Explore Tent Options at Under Canvas Grand Canyon
Just 25 minutes from the South Rim entrance, Under Canvas Grand Canyon offers a unique stay in safari-inspired tents, perfectly blending comfort with the great outdoors. Choose from various tent options like the Suite, Stargazer, and Deluxe tents, each accommodating up to four guests, with adjacent kid’s tents and the option for an extra cot. Enjoy modern amenities like private bathrooms with hot showers and flushing toilets. Relax on your private deck under the stars or get cozy by the wood-burning stove as you share the day’s stories while experiencing an elevated outdoor stay that combines natural beauty with contemporary comfort and style.
Tips for a Successful Family Trip to the Grand Canyon
As you prepare for your family adventure to the Grand Canyon, a few key tips can make all the difference in ensuring a successful and enjoyable experience:
- Plan Ahead: Remember to book your stay in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the best options for your family.
- Pack the Essentials: Sunscreen, hats, comfortable shoes, and plenty of water are a must. Check out our Grand Canyon packing list for a detailed guide.
- Stay Flexible: Be ready to adjust your plans based on the weather and the kids’ energy levels.
Visiting the Grand Canyon with kids is an unforgettable experience. With the right planning and activities, you can ensure an enjoyable and enriching trip for the whole family. Get ready to create lasting memories in one of the world’s most magnificent natural wonders.