Exploring South Rim of Grand Canyon during Summer

The Grand Canyon is truly a must-see wonder of the world. It is also enormous, keep in mind, when exploring rim-to-rim. From south rim to north rim, it is about 20+ miles apart. Depending on what you're interested in accomplishing during your stay, to get the most out of your trip, exploring the vastness of the park may range from a few days of hiking to a 4-5 hour road trip (duration it will take to get to the Grand Canyon's West Rim Skywalk), but no matter where you are, I promise the views are incredible.

WHERE TO GET THE BEST VIEWS AT THE SOUTH RIM?: The south rim makes for a perfect day trip. These viewpoints are along Route 64.

• Grand View Point
• Moran Point
• Desert View Watchtower

Outside of the park, there are gift shops for souvenirs, hotels & lodging, plenty of places to eat, and the National Geographic Visitor Center (go here if you are interested in a jeep tour).

TIPS:

• TECH: There is no service inside of the park. I recommend putting your mobile phone on airplane mode, to save battery life (if you don't have a camera and want to use your camera phone). Otherwise, it will try to search for service and waste away your battery life.
• NAVIGATION: Have a map to help guide you through the park. There should be maps available at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center/South Rim entrance. There are also miles markers that should help you keep track of how far you are going.
• NEED TO REFUEL ON GAS? The is only one gas station, Chevron, inside the south rim. It is located is at the Desert View Visitor Center, along Route 64, about 30 miles from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center/South Rim entrance. There are also restrooms at this viewpoint.
• WEATHER: Stay hydrated. Check the weather before venturing out for the day, know your limits in varying weather conditions. Temperatures at the Grand Canyon, especially during the summer, can reach beyond 100 degrees. Take extra precaution if you are at ground level of the Grand Canyon, temperatures can reach up to 120 degrees. Arizona's "monsoon" season is typically between mid-June to mid-September. There isn't always rain, but when there is, be cautious of an flash flood warnings.
• MY EXPERIENCE: I went for a week during mid-July, temperatures were at high 80s, with some wind, during the day and quite chilly at night!