How to plan for a trip to Grand Canyon?
One of the world’s seven natural wonders, the Grand Canyon’s immense scale, breathtaking beauty and indescribable rock formations attract thousands of tourists every year. Described as “the one great sights which every American should see” by Theodore Roosevelt, the Grand Canyon is about two billion years old and was carved into existence by the mighty Colorado River, which continues to do so today. The Canyon and its magnificent surrounds offer myriad outdoor activities, adventures and attractions to enjoy from hiking, climbing, mountain biking, and horseback riding, to scenic drives, camping, fishing and birding.
Weather in the Grand Canyon during September to November
Some of the best months to visit the Grand Canyon are during the spring from March to May and the autumn from September through November. During September, the daytime temperatures begin to cool down, skies are sunny and clear and the manic crowds of the summer begin to disperse. It can however be quite cold during this time, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-70s, so make sure to pack some warm clothes. Most of the trails and facilities are open until the end of October, but once the snows begin to fall, many areas close for the winter, such as the entire North Rim.
What clothes to pack for the Grand Canyon during September, October and November
Women-
- Lightweight jacket for hiking during the day;
- Heavyweight jacket for evenings and mornings, which can be cold;
- Thermal underwear / long-johns;
- Long pants or trousers that convert to shorts, which can be interchanged according to the weather;
- Rain jacket / Foldable poncho;
- Warm knit cap / Beanie;
- Good walking shoes
Expert tip! Pack a foldable rain poncho, which is lightweight and small and will protect you from the rain if needed. It is much lighter to carry than a heavy raincoat.
Men-
- Long pants or trousers that convert to shorts, which can be interchanged according to the weather;
- Lightweight jacket for the day;
- Heavyweight jacket for cold mornings and nights;
- Thermal underwear ;
- Rain jacket / Poncho;
- Beanie / Any type of warm hat
- Good walking shoes
Children-
- Heavyweight jacket
- Sweaters / long sleeve tops / T-shirts
- Rain jacket / Poncho
- Long pants or trousers that convert to shorts, which can be interchanged according to the weather;
- Warm knit cap / Beanie
- Good walking shoes
Miscellaneous-
Other important items to pack when traveling to the Grand Canyon in September include:
- Toiletries and medical supplies
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
Expert Tip! It is a good idea to get a broad spectrum anti-biotic from your doctor for emergencies. Rather have medicines you know than have to use a new type of medicine and risk it not working.
Things to see and do in the Grand Canyon
The vast scale and impressive beauty of the Grand Canyon makes taking it all in an activity in itself – simply enjoying the view from the array of vantage points around the canyon can take hours. One of the best ways to see and experience the canyon is to hike to the bottom on world-renowned trails such as the Bright Angel Trail. Another fantastic way to take it all in is to river raft on the Colorado River, which winds its way through the canyon.
Top Ten Attractions
1. Grand Canyon Village– Grand Canyon Village boasts some of the best best lookout points in the park, including Yavapai Point, but be prepared for heavy crowds in the summer months.
2. North Rim– The North Rim is known for being isolated, rugged and sparse and packed full of natural beauty. Popular spots include Bright Angel Point, with magnificent views of the Roaring Springs, the North Rim’s only water source, and the the highest point on the North Rim, the Point Imperial.
3. Bright Angel Trail– This six-mile trail is steep and rugged, but is an excellent way to see the Canyon. For a unique experience, travel the Bright Angel Trail by mule from Plateau Point and back, with a lunch break at Indian Garden.
4. Rim Trail- Lesser known than the popular Bright Angel Trail, the Rim Trail offers a great introduction to the Grand Canyon and fantastic views, with several shuttle stops along the way.
5. North Kaibib Trail– The North Kaibib Trail is the North Rim’s best hike, leading all the way to the Colorado River. This is a rough and hardy trail with little shade, so novice hikers should start with the South Rim before attempting this hike.
6. Havasu Falls– Regarded by visitors as one of the Grand Canyon’s most impressive sights, Havasu Falls is a desert oasis, featuring shimmering blue waterways and gushing waterfalls against the surreal rocky canyon backdrop.
7. Colorado River Rafting– Experience the Grand Canyon from a different point of view with an exhilarating river rafting trip down the Colorado River. Relaxed day trips and hardcore whitewater trips are offered, catering for every need.
8. Grand Canyon Railway– Built in the late 19th century, this historic railroad was originally used to transport ore from the Anita mines, and today carries between Williams and the South Rim’s Grand Canyon Depot.
9. Grand Canyon Skywalk– The Grand Canyon Skywalk offers a truly unique viewpoint of the Canyon, as tourists can walk out over the Canyon on a large, semi-circular bridge with a transparent glass floors.
10. Glen Canyon Dam- Also known as “The White House”, the Glen Canyon Dam has an extended lookout point on the rim of Glen Canyon that offers spectacular views over the dam and canyon beyond.
