Which Side of the Grand Canyon Is Less Touristy?

The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world, and naturally, that kind of magnificence draws in crowds of tourists, with plenty of Grand Canyon tours to choose from. But have you ever wondered which side of the Grand Canyon is less touristy? 

Short answer: The North Rim is the least touristy side of the Grand Canyon.

Long answer: There are several reasons why the North Rim draws in the least amount of tourists to the Grand Canyon. These reasons could influence your decision of whether or not to visit it, so let's take a look.

What Are the Different Sides of the Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon is divided into three sections: the North Rim, South Rim, and West Rim. The South Rim is the most popular and heavily visited area, with millions of visitors each year.

However, the North Rim is much less crowded and can provide a more peaceful and relaxing experience. The West Rim, home to the famous Skywalk, offers a unique perspective with its glass bridge extending over the canyon. Each rim has its own distinct characteristics and attractions, so think carefully about what do you want to experience before joining one of the Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas.

Whether you seek the bustling viewpoints of the South Rim or the tranquil solitude of the North Rim, the Grand Canyon has something for everyone.

• The Grand Canyon is approximately 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide.
• The North Rim is about 1,000 feet higher in elevation than the South Rim, resulting in cooler temperatures.
• The Skywalk at the West Rim extends 70 feet out over the canyon, offering breathtaking views.

Related Reading: Grand Canyon South Rim Versus North Rim 

The West Rim, also known as "Grand Canyon West," falls between the North and South Rims in terms of popularity. However, it doesn't really have trails or places to explore. Rather, the main attraction is the Grand Canyon Skywalk.

The North Rim is located at the highest elevation, which means that it's typically cooler and more forested. This makes it an ideal spot for those looking for a break from the heat of the desert. 

The North Rim also offers a different perspective of the Canyon, with more rugged and wild terrain. It's less developed than the South Rim, with fewer amenities and services. However, this can also make it a more authentic and natural experience

Why the Grand Canyon North Rim Is Less Touristy

One of the main reasons why the North Rim is less touristy is that is more remote and harder to access than the South Rim. It is only accessible by car or shuttle bus, which can limit the number of visitors. The North Rim is only open from mid-May to mid-October, and the road leading to it is closed during the winter months. 

The North Rim's location also plays a role. It is further away from major cities and airports, so it is a longer and more difficult journey to get there. 

Another reason why the North Rim is less touristy is that there are fewer amenities and attractions in the area. While the South Rim has numerous restaurants, hotels, and gift shops, the North Rim has only a handful. 

This could be a pro to some, as the area is less developed and thus more natural. The lack of amenities also means that there are fewer crowds, making it easier to find a quiet spot to enjoy the view.

Things to Do at the Grand Canyon North Rim

Despite being less developed than the South Rim, the North Rim still has plenty to offer visitors. There are numerous hiking trails and viewpoints that provide stunning views of the Canyon. 

Some of the most popular trails include the North Kaibab Trail, the Cape Final Trail, and the Bright Angel Point Trail. These trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous, and all offer unique perspectives of the Canyon.

Another popular attraction on the North Rim is the Grand Canyon Lodge. This historic lodge was built in the 1920s and provides a rustic and charming place to stay.

The lodge offers a restaurant, a gift shop, and stunning views of the Canyon. There are also cabins and camping sites available in the area for those looking for a more outdoor experience.

• Wildlife such as bison, mule deer, and mountain lions can be frequently spotted in the North Rim area.
• The North Rim is about 10 miles (as the crow flies) from the South Rim, but it takes about five hours to drive between the two due to the lack of direct roads.
• The North Rim receives only 10% of the Grand Canyon’s total visitors, making it a more secluded and tranquil experience.
• Bright Angel Point on the North Rim offers some of the most stunning sunset views in the entire Grand Canyon.

In Conclusion

While the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is more developed and heavily visited, the North Rim offers a more remote and natural experience. It's less crowded, cooler, and more rugged than the South Rim. 

The North Rim is perfect for those looking for a break from the crowds and a chance to experience the Canyon in a more authentic way. While it may be more challenging to reach and have fewer amenities, the stunning views and peaceful surroundings make it well worth the effort. 

Still undecided about which part of the Grand Canyon you should go to? Read our blog post on which side of the Grand Canyon is best to visit.