Deciding to visit the Grand Canyon’s West Rim or South Rim by bus from Las Vegas? Both destinations are worth the trip. But you can’t do both in a day. Here are some time-and-money issues that will assist you in picking the rim that’s right for you:

Time

The West Rim is 2.5 hours away from Las Vegas. The South Rim is 5.5 hours. The West Rim tour will have you back on The Strip by 4 p.m. while the South Rim tour will get you back by 9 p.m.

Distance

The West Rim is 128 miles from Vegas. The South Rim is 279 miles. Distance is a non-issue if you take one of today’s luxury buses. These motor coaches come with comfortable seats, pull-down blinds, individualized A/C stations, and ample legroom. There are also a number of comfort breaks, including a photo stop at Hoover Dam.

Activities

The West Rim has more man-made attractions. The South Rim is more famous for natural scenery. Here’s a closer look:

———————-

South Rim

Lookouts

The rim is distinguished by its famous lookouts. The best are Mather Point, Yaki Point, Yavapai Observation Station, and Hermit’s Rest. Behind Bright Angel Lodge is also excellent.

Restaurants

Large variety. Bright Angel Lodge restaurant offers inexpensive home-style cooking. Maswick Lodge features cafeteria-style. The snack bar behind Bright Angel is perfect for quick eats. Go to El Tovar for fine dining and cocktails. The supermarket near Mather Campground has a deli.

Gift Shops

Something for everyone. Check out Hopi House for Native American handicrafts. Fine art is available at Kolb Studio. Bright Angel Lodge has the best souvenirs. Go to Grand Canyon Information Plaza for books, DVDs, and maps.

———————-

West Rim

Skywalk

Vegas’ hottest outdoor attraction. More than 1 million people have experienced it since 2007. This engineering marvel lets you walk 70 feet past the edge. Below some 4,000 feet is the Colorado River.

Hualapai Ranch

Traditional western town with live gunfights. Horse riding, one-day rafting trips, and overnight lodging is available.

Lookouts

Most popular viewing areas are Eagle Point and Guano Point. There’s an Indian village nearby where you can learn and experience the local culture.

Gift Shops/Food

Limited. There’s one main facility and it features a snack bar and a souvenir shop. Bus tours include a BBQ lunch prepared by the Hualapai Tribe.

———————-

The Weather

The South Rim, elevation 7,000 feet, is 1,500 feet higher than the West Rim, so count on cooler temperatures. Here are annual temps:

Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

Elevation is 7,000 feet

Jan. – March Avg. high temp.: 45 degrees. Average low: 21 degrees.

April – June Average high temperature: 69 degrees. Average low: 39 degrees.

July – Sept.: Average high temperature: 82 degrees. Average low: 52 degrees.

Oct. – Dec.: Average high temperature: 52 degrees. Avg low: 27 degrees.

West Rim/Skywalk

Elevation is 4,700 feet.

Jan. – March Average high temperature: 70 degrees. Avg. low: 43 degrees.

April – June: Average high temperature: 96 degrees. Average low: 65 degrees.

July – Sept.: Avg. high temp.: 105 degrees. Avg. low: 76 degrees.

Oct. – Dec.: Avg high temp.: 76 degrees. Avg. low: 46 degrees.

What to Wear & What to Bring

Dress in layers during winter. Wear loose, light clothing during summer. South Rim gets snow during so wear pants, a medium-weight jacket, and sturdy shoes (I see too many people showing up in shorts from Vegas). During the summer, bring a water and sunscreen.

How Much Does It Cost?

West Rim bus tours start under $100 and South Rim trips at $80. Tour prices are all-inclusive and come with all entrance fees, lunch, and guide. Book online for the best price. Skywalk tickets are extra and cost $29.95 for adults, $22.95 for children ages 3-11, and $26.95 for seniors and military personnel.

Let\’s Go!

South Rim or West Rim? Both locations feature incredible beauty and attractions. Truth of the matter is it depends on your budget and how much time you have. If you evaluate the rims based on these criteria, I assure you that you will find the Grand Canyon tour that best meets your needs.

Travel writer Keith Kravitz writes about bus, helicopter, and airplane trips to the Grand Canyon. Use this link to access his top Grand Canyon Tours From Vegas.

Travel writer Keith Kravitz writes about bus, helicopter, and airplane trips to the Grand Canyon. Use this link to access his top Grand Canyon Tours From Vegas at: http://www.grandcanyon123.com

Author Bio: Travel writer Keith Kravitz writes about bus, helicopter, and airplane trips to the Grand Canyon. Use this link to access his top Grand Canyon Tours From Vegas.

Category: Travel
Keywords: grand canyon tours, grand canyon las vegas, grand canyon vegas, grand canyon bus, grand canyon helic