Visting the Grand Canyon...in Winter

The Grand Canyon is popular. Most people have it on the top of their list of places to see. And most people visit the canyon in spring and summer.

And when we say 'most' we mean millions.

So, to avoid the lines and still check off the Grand Canyon on your life list, why not visit the canyon in December?

I did and it was great.

It was my brother's first visit to Arizona and naturally he wanted to see the Grand Canyon. No problem, it is only about a 4 hour drive from Phoenix...not bad for one of the wonders of the world.

Plus, it was mid-December which meant that the spring and summer-time crowds were long gone.

Arriving a the canyon, you can immediately sense the space. Parking lots were near empty, only a few tour buses and your choice of spots along the rails at Mather Point.

On top of that, it was snowing.

I guess a lot of travelers don't picture Arizona with snow. Well it snows here and particularly in and around the Grand Canyon.

And if you think the Grand Canyon is breathtaking on a normal day, you should see it with snow. Red rocks, peaks, trees all coated in white.

Grand Canyon in December, the perfect time to visit.

While visiting the South Rim in December is easy for most visitors, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon closes around mid-October.

So, plan on visiting the South Rim.

Because of the large amounts of visitors during the spring and summer months, the Rim Dr. road is typically restricted to shuttle buses that drop off visitors at each point.

However, during the slower winter months, the Rim Dr. road is open* to all traffic and allows you to explore the viewpoints beyond the village area at your own pace.

*check with the Park Service before arriving about access to Rim Dr.