Grand Canyon South Rim Driving Tour
$14.99
Grand Canyon South Rim Driving Tour
Explore Iconic Overlooks, Historic Landmarks, Ancient Cultures, and One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World
Looking for the best Grand Canyon South Rim self guided driving tour?
Experience the Grand Canyon at your own pace with a GPS-guided driving adventure along the South Rim and Desert View Drive. This tour combines breathtaking viewpoints, fascinating history, Native American heritage, and unforgettable stories that bring one of the world's greatest natural wonders to life.
From the historic village district and Mather Point to Desert View Watchtower, you'll discover how explorers, photographers, artists, architects, and Indigenous peoples shaped the story of the Grand Canyon.
Whether you're visiting for a few hours or a full day, this self-guided driving tour helps you see far more than just spectacular views.
Why Choose This Grand Canyon South Rim Self Guided Driving Tour?
Most visitors stop at a few overlooks and leave with incredible photos.
This tour helps you understand the stories behind the scenery.
Along the route you'll discover:
How the Grand Canyon formed over millions of years
The legendary Kolb Brothers and their canyon photography empire
The remarkable life and architecture of Mary Colter
Native American history and connections to the canyon
The story behind the National Park Service
Ancient Puebloan settlements and archaeological sites
Historic railroads, hotels, and early tourism
Hidden viewpoints and lesser-known stops
The best overlooks for photography, hiking, and wildlife viewing
Why generations have fought to protect the Grand Canyon
$14.99
What will you see? Here are the tour highlights
Verkamp's Visitor Center
Begin your journey in Grand Canyon Village and discover one of the earliest tourist businesses on the South Rim, dating back to 1898.
Hopi House
Designed by legendary architect Mary Colter, this remarkable building was modeled after traditional Hopi architecture and remains one of the park's most iconic landmarks.
El Tovar Hotel
Experience the historic luxury hotel that welcomed travelers arriving by train and hosted famous guests including Theodore Roosevelt and Albert Einstein.
Kolb Studio
Learn how two adventurous brothers built a photography business perched dramatically on the canyon rim and became Grand Canyon legends.
Yavapai Point & Trail of Time
Walk through millions of years of geological history while enjoying one of the best educational experiences in the park.
Mather Point
One of the most photographed locations on the South Rim and the first Grand Canyon view for millions of visitors.
South Kaibab Trailhead & Yaki Point
Enjoy sweeping panoramic views and learn about the fascinating battle over trail access in the early days of Grand Canyon tourism.
Grandview Point
Discover the story of copper miner Pete Berry, whose mining trail eventually became one of the park's most famous hiking routes.
Moran Point
Named after artist Thomas Moran, whose paintings helped inspire public support for protecting the Grand Canyon.
Tusayan Ruin & Museum
Explore an 800-year-old Ancestral Puebloan village and learn about the people who lived on the canyon rim centuries before modern visitors arrived.
Lipan Point
One of the best places on the South Rim to view the Colorado River winding through the canyon below.
Desert View Watchtower
The grand finale of the tour. Mary Colter's iconic 70-foot tower offers spectacular 360-degree views and showcases Native American-inspired architecture and artwork.
FAQ's
How long is the Grand Canyon South Rim self guided driving tour?
The drive itself can be completed in about 45 minutes without stops, but most visitors spend several hours exploring viewpoints, museums, historic sites, and short walks along the route.
Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Verkamp's Visitor Center in Grand Canyon Village before following South Entrance Road and Desert View Drive east toward Desert View Watchtower.
What are the best stops on the South Rim?
Popular highlights include Mather Point, Yavapai Point, Grandview Point, Moran Point, Lipan Point, Navajo Point, and Desert View Watchtower.
Is this a good tour for first-time visitors?
Yes. The route covers many of the South Rim's most famous viewpoints, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions while providing context that most visitors miss.
Can I visit the Grand Canyon in one day?
Absolutely. This self-guided driving tour is designed specifically for visitors who want to experience the South Rim's top attractions in a single day while still having time to stop and explore.
Who designed the Desert View Watchtower?
The tower was designed by architect Mary Colter and opened in 1932. Today it remains one of the most iconic structures in Grand Canyon National Park.
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