Grand Canyon West – All you need to know in 2025

What is Grand Canyon West?

Grand Canyon West is a privately managed section of the Grand Canyon, located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation in northwestern Arizona. Unlike Grand Canyon National Park, which is run by the National Park Service, Grand Canyon West is owned and operated by the Hualapai Tribe. The area is known for its breathtaking viewpoints, the famous Skywalk, and unique cultural experiences that showcase Hualapai heritage.

Situated approximately one hundred and twenty miles east of Las Vegas, Nevada, Grand Canyon West provides an accessible yet distinct experience compared to Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim, which is more than two hundred and seventy miles away. Unlike the national park, Grand Canyon West operates through privately managed tourism experiences, requiring visitors to purchase admission packages rather than paying a general park entrance fee.

Grand Canyon West is managed by the Hualapai Tribe, which has developed the site as a destination for visitors seeking an alternative Grand Canyon experience. The development reflects a balance between tourism and the preservation of the tribe’s cultural heritage, with proceeds directly benefiting the Hualapai people.

Why should I visit Grand Canyon West?

There are multiple compelling reasons to visit Grand Canyon West. Its proximity to Las Vegas makes it an attractive option for a day trip, while the Skywalk offers a breathtaking opportunity to walk on a glass-bottomed structure suspended over the canyon. Additionally, the area provides cultural insights into the traditions of the Hualapai Tribe, offering a perspective that is unavailable at the National Park sites. Another major draw is the relatively lower number of visitors, ensuring a more intimate experience with the landscape.

How do I get to Grand Canyon West?

Distances from Major Cities

• Las Vegas, Nevada: Approximately one hundred and twenty miles, a journey of about two hours.
• Phoenix, Arizona: Roughly two hundred and sixty miles, requiring about four hours by car.
• Los Angeles, California: Around three hundred and seventy miles, necessitating a five-and-a-half-hour drive.

Travel Options

By Car and Road Conditions

Driving is the most common means of reaching Grand Canyon West. Those traveling from Las Vegas should take US-95 South to NV-164 East, continuing on Pearce Ferry Road and Diamond Bar Road. Visitors driving from Phoenix should take US-60 to US-93 before connecting to Pierce Ferry Road. The roads are mostly paved but pass through remote areas, making it essential to ensure the vehicle is in good condition before the trip.

Shuttle Services

Several tour operators in Las Vegas offer shuttle services that include transportation and entrance fees. These organized tours provide a stress-free experience and may include additional guided commentary about the history and geography of the canyon.

Helicopter and Airplane Tours

For a more dramatic arrival, several companies, including Papillon and Maverick, offer helicopter and airplane tours departing from Las Vegas. Some of these flights include landing experiences or river excursions, adding a unique dimension to the journey.

Flights to the Grand Canyon West airport

You can book scenic tours to the Grand Canyon West airport. Here is a selection of scenic tours (helicopter tours and airplane tours) to Grand Canyon West.

You will land at the Grand Canyon West airport, right next to the rim of the Grand Canyon.

The Best Times to Visit

Visitors should carefully consider the timing of their trip. Spring and autumn present the most favorable conditions, with moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is the busiest season and can be extremely hot, making hydration and sun protection essential. The winter months offer a quieter experience, though some amenities may operate on a limited schedule.

Attractions and Activities at Grand Canyon West

The Skywalk

The Skywalk is one of the most remarkable features of Grand Canyon West. This horseshoe-shaped, glass-bottomed bridge extends seventy feet beyond the canyon rim, providing an unparalleled vantage point. Suspended four thousand feet above the Colorado River, the Skywalk allows visitors to step into the void and experience the grandeur of the canyon from a unique perspective. However, personal cameras are not permitted on the Skywalk due to safety and property regulations; instead, professional photographs are available for purchase.

Guano Point

Guano Point offers a panoramic 360-degree view of the canyon. Named after a bat guano mining operation that once existed in the area, this location features a short but scenic hiking trail leading to a summit, from which visitors can take in an awe-inspiring view of the canyon’s expanse.

Eagle Point

Eagle Point derives its name from a rock formation resembling an eagle in flight. This site is home to the Hualapai Village, where visitors can explore traditional Native American dwellings and enjoy cultural performances that showcase the heritage of the tribe.

Adventure Activities

For thrill-seekers, Grand Canyon West offers a zipline experience spanning 3,200 feet, reaching speeds of up to fifty miles per hour. Additionally, helicopter tours combined with pontoon boat rides on the Colorado River provide an exhilarating way to explore the canyon from both above and below.

Hiking Opportunities

While hiking options are more limited than at the National Park sites, some unpaved walking paths connect the viewpoints. These walks offer a more immersive experience of the landscape while allowing visitors to take in the sights at their own pace.

Grand Canyon West: Practical Information

Admission and Fees

Unlike the National Park, Grand Canyon West operates on a package-based admission system. General entry begins at approximately forty-nine dollars per person, with additional fees required for access to the Skywalk and other attractions. Several package deals bundle multiple experiences, such as helicopter rides or river excursions.

Accommodations

Lodging options near Grand Canyon West are limited. The Hualapai Lodge in Peach Springs, Arizona, provides the closest accommodations. Additional hotels can be found in Kingman, which is about ninety minutes away, or in Las Vegas for those planning a day trip. There are also a few RV parks and campgrounds in the vicinity for those looking for an outdoor experience.

Dining

Dining choices within Grand Canyon West are relatively sparse. The Skywalk Restaurant offers casual meals with a view of the canyon, while the Hualapai Ranch Café serves Western-style cuisine. Given the limited food options, visitors may also consider bringing their own snacks and refreshments.

Accessibility Considerations

Grand Canyon West is largely wheelchair-accessible, with paved paths at the main viewpoints. Restrooms are available at key locations, and service animals are permitted, though pets are not allowed.

Photo credits:

Article photo by Stan Lawrimore on Unsplash