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Picking out whether to visit the Skywalk or Grand Canyon National Park while staying in Las Vegas? That's a tough one. Both attractions are worth the trip. However, there are a few logistical and budgetary differences between the two that can help solve the dilemma for you.
HOW MUCH TIME DOES IT TAKE?
This is a big issue for a lot of people. It takes a bus 2.5 hours to reach Grand Canyon West and 5.5 hours to reach the South Rim. It takes a helicopter 45 minutes and an airplane 25 minutes to reach the West Rim, respectively. It takes an airplane 45 minutes to fly to the South Rim; there are no direct helicopter flights. Be ready to spend a full day on trips to the West Rim. South Rim airplane trips need a full day, too, while bus tours average about 15 hours.
HOW FAR IS IT?
The one-way driving distance from Las Vegas to the West Rim is 128 miles and 279 miles to the South Rim. Both are relatively long trips. Fortunately, today's motor coach has all the amenities, including plush seats and a clean bathroom. There are also a number of stops where you can stretch your legs (including Hoover Dam).
WHAT'S THERE TO DO?
Each rim has distinct things to do. The West Rim is famous for its man-made attractions while the South Rim is praised for its incredible natural beauty. Additionally, while there are visitor facilities at the West Rim, the ones at South Rim are more developed. Here's a breakdown:
South Rim:
View Points
This area of the Canyon is loaded with fantastic viewing spots. The most famous are Mather Point, Yavapai Observation Station, Yaki Point, Hermit's Rest and more. All can be reached via the Park's excellent free shuttle bus system.
Restaurants
Dining opportunities vary from casual to highbrow laid-back. The largest, heartiest portions are served at the Bright Angel Restaurant. For cafeteria-style, head to Maswick Lodge. Or polish up your shoes and enjoy a sumptuous dinner in the El Tovar dining room. If you are looking for a quick bite, try the snack bar behind the Lodge. There's a full-sized supermarket near Mather Campground.
Souvenir Shopping
This is a South Rim "must-do." For Native American handicrafts, it's the Hopi House. Go to Verkamp's or Kolb Studio for books, DVDs, and maps. The gift shop within the Bright Angel Lodge is the place for t-shirts, water bottles, key chains, and postcards.
West Rim (Grand Canyon Skywalk):
Skywalk
The Glass Bridge is now Las Vegas' hottest "off-Strip" attraction. Since opening to the public in 2007, more than one million people have experienced the Bridge. It's a fantastic structure: Manufactured from special glass, it extends 70 feet over the Canyon, wherein you are suspended 4,000 feet above the Colorado River.
Hualapai Ranch
This is truly a special place. It features a Wild West town where gunfights are staged. Other cowboy "games" include axe and hay bale throwing. You get saddle up and go horseback riding or participate in a cattle drive. Overnight lodging is available.
Lookouts
Eagle Point is the main lookout for the West Rim. Spectacular views are to be had. Be warned - There's no guardrail. The region includes an Indian village and outdoor amphitheater for talks on local culture, flora, and fauna.
Gift Shops/Food
Grand Canyon West is a relatively new development of the Hualapai Indian Tribe. The complex that services the Skywalk is the hub of activity and includes a gift shop (this is where you pick up your Skywalk souvenir photos) and snack bar. The Tribe's future plans for the area include hotels and restaurants.
WEATHER
The South Rim, elevation 7,000 feet, is 1,500 feet higher than the West Rim, so expect cooler temperatures. Other than that, both areas are subject to extreme weather. Here's a quick look at annual temperatures for both rims:
South Rim
Elevation is 7,000 feet
Jan. - March
Average high temperature: 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. Average low: 27 degrees.
West Rim/Skywalk
Elevation is 4,700 feet.
Jan. - March
Average high temperature: 70 degrees. Average low: 43 degrees.
April - June
Average high temperature: 96 degrees. Average low: 65 degrees.
July - Sept.:
Average high temperature: 105 degrees. Average low: 76 degrees.
Oct. - Dec.
Average high temperature: 76 degrees. Average low: 46 degrees.
WHAT TO WEAR & BRING
Warm layers in the winter and wind-resistant, cool clothing in the summer. Expect winter snow at the South Rim and wear pants, shoes and a jacket (it's not uncommon to see people in shorts!). During the summer, always bring a water bottle and plenty of sunscreen.
PRICE
Remarkably, tour prices to the rims are similar. West rim bus tours start under $ 100 and South Rim tours around $ 80. Helicopter tours to the Skywalk start at $ 200. West Rim airplane tours start at $ 105 and South Rim ones at $ 190 (this particular tour is a total bargain). Try to purchase an all-inclusive tour that includes Skywalk admission, which, if bought separately, will run you $ 29.95 per person.
WRAP UP
The Rims of the Grand Canyon are wondrous places. It would be great if there was a Las Vegas-Grand Canyon tour that did both but there isn't (if there were, it would be a two-day trip). However, the Rims are different enough in terms of tour time, price, and attractions that you can find the trip that's right for you.
Travel insider Kelly Kirbee posts the best deals on tours to the Grand Canyon's West and South Rims at http://www.GrandCanyonDayTrips.com
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