Grand Canyon Tours from Flagstaff
Just 80 miles away, Flagstaff is your perfect launchpad to explore the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Here's how to plan your unforgettable adventure:
Why Start Your Grand Canyon Tour from Flagstaff?
- Proximity: Just 1.5 hours to the South Rim by car or shuttle.
- Gateway to Adventure: Mountain town vibes, forest setting, historic charm, and elevation-based cool tempuratures.
- Tour Variety: Train, helicopter, hiking, rafting, or biking excursions just a shuttle or short drive away.
- Hotels & Eats: Stay overnight, enjoy local breweries, dining, coffee shops, and prep for your trip.
Top Experiences from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon
1. Grand Canyon Shuttle Vans
Grand Canyon tours from Flagstaff often offer hotel or convenient location pickups. These shuttle van tours are a fantastic way to sit back, enjoy the view, and let knowledgeable guides entertain and share their passion for the Canyon with you. Lunch can be provided as well as customizable amenities and additional stops at other nearby areas interest.
2. Grand Canyon Day Hikes
Explore scenic and strenuous trails at Grand Canyon National Park. Many guided Grand Canyon hikes meet in Flagstaff before departing to the Canyon before embarking on their hiking adventure.
- Rim Trail: Easy, paved
- Bright Angel: 12 mi RT
- South Kaibab: 6 mi RT
- Hermit/Grandview: Advanced hikers only
- Rim to Rim Hikes Advanced hikers only
Note: Backcountry & overnight hikes require permits.
3. River Rafting in the Grand Canyon
Raft the Colorado River on 3–18 day guided trips. Includes meals, camping gear, and expert guides. Suitable for ages 7+ (most require 12+). Most Grand Canyon river trips depart from Flagstaff.
Explore Rafting Trips
4. Grand Canyon by Train
Board the Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, 30 minutes from Flagstaff. Travel 2.25 hours to Grand Canyon Village — just steps from the South Rim.
- Departs: 9:30 AM | Returns: 5:45 PM
- Classes: Pullman ($65), Coach, First Class, Dome & Luxury Parlor ($219+)
- Inner Canyon 4x4 Add-On: $269 adults / $209 children
View Train Tours
5. Helicopter & Aerial Tours
Stay in Flagstaff and fly from Tusayan for epic views of the canyon’s corridors and cliffs. Choose from Maverick of Papillon helicopters to get premium views and safety.
View Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours
6. Grand Canyon by Bicycle
Rent bikes at Grand Canyon National Park or join a guided tour with Bright Angel Bicycles.
- Hermit Road Tour (6 mi): $47–$62
- Yaki Road Tour (7 mi): $42–$52
- Rentals from $12/hr adults, $9/hr kids
Tour Booking Tips
- Book early — especially for train, rafting, and helicopter tours
- Dress in layers — temperature swings are dramatic
- Hydration is key — carry water, even on short hikes
- ADA options available for trains and shuttles
- Overnight stay recommended for full experience
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Flagstaff from the Grand Canyon?
About 80 miles — around 1.5 hours by car.
Do I need to book tours in advance?
Yes, especially for train rides, helicopter tours, and rafting trips. They fill quickly!
What’s the best way to visit if I don’t want to drive?
Shuttles vans or private, custom, tours and transportation from Flagstaff are ideal if you prefer not to drive.
Are there family-friendly tour options?
Yes — train rides, bike tours, and most guided hikes are great for kids.
Ready to Book Your Grand Canyon Adventure?
Explore tours, compare rates, and reserve your experience below!
RECOMMENDED GRAND CANYON TOURS
The Grand Canyon is one of the wonders of the world, and what better way to see it than from its heart, on a Colorado river rafting trip? This unique trip down the Grand Canyon ranges from running world-class rapids to hiking and swimming in the side canyons to investigating the remains le
… More
The Grand Canyon is one of the wonders of the world, and what better way to see it than from its heart, on a Colorado river rafting trip? This unique trip down the Grand Canyon ranges from running world-class rapids to hiking and swimming in the side canyons to investigating the remains left by the first inhabitants of the Grand Canyon. Let our experienced guides show you the wonders of the Grand Canyon. This is not a tour of the Grand Canyon, it's an adventure!
Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity | Trip Begins in Las Vegas
Marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim during this Grand Canyon Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include a day trip to visit Arizona’s breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, a scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, and several viewpoints at the
… More
Marvel at the beauty that is the South Rim during this Grand Canyon Tour from Phoenix & Scottsdale. Highlights include a day trip to visit Arizona’s breathtaking Grand Canyon National Park, a scenic drive with views of the San Francisco Peaks in Flagstaff, and several viewpoints at the spectacular Grand Canyon South Rim. Optional "Colors & Canyons" 45-minute helicopter upgrade available.
Professionally Guided | Hotel Pick-ups | Custom Options Available | Private Trips | Family-Friendly
Go on an epic journey to Sedona, the Grand Canyon or more! Services include 1 to 8 day hiking adventures, tasty backcountry cuisine, and quality gear served up by America's most experienced and knowledgeable Grand Canyon guides. 25+ years experience in adventure travel.
Professionally Guided | Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity
Discover the Grand Canyon, endless in scenic wonder, rich in Native American history and loaded with fun and adventure, Western River Expeditions' Grand Canyon tours are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Exploring the Grand Canyon by river is an experience unlike any other. Discover hidden
… More
Discover the Grand Canyon, endless in scenic wonder, rich in Native American history and loaded with fun and adventure, Western River Expeditions' Grand Canyon tours are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Exploring the Grand Canyon by river is an experience unlike any other. Discover hidden waterfalls and paradisiacal side canyons - areas of Grand Canyon National Park that are accessible only by river.
Hotel Pick-ups | COVID-19 Precautions Taken | Low-Risk Covid-19 Activity | Professionally Guided | Trip Begins in Las Vegas
Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon Nation
… More
Visit the official website for Grand Canyon Railway. Book your reservation online for a train tour on one of five classes of service on our vintage train to the Grand Canyon. Or,select a vacation package that includes lodging at our own Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and in Grand Canyon National Park.
Central Departure Location | Custom Options Available | Discounts Available | Family-Friendly | Free Parking | Packages Available | Reservations Required | Upgrades available
Witness one of the natural wonders of the world in all its glory. The Grand Canyon is so massive, and awe-inspiring that you simply must see it with your own two eyes to truly understand its scale. This value-for-money self-guided tour takes you to all the best vistas and hiking trails. Ex
… More
Witness one of the natural wonders of the world in all its glory. The Grand Canyon is so massive, and awe-inspiring that you simply must see it with your own two eyes to truly understand its scale. This value-for-money self-guided tour takes you to all the best vistas and hiking trails. Explore Grand Canyon at your own pace with over 60 stories laid out on a 45-mile route.
Fully Guided Personal Tours
Professionally Narrated Stories
Works Offline
Fun Facts
Tour At Your Own Pace
Location Aware, Plays Automatically
Don’t Miss Any Sightseeing Points
No Groups. No Tips
Self Guided | Family-Friendly
Your unforgettable Route 66 adventure begins in Williams, AZ,
known as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon. This charming
town was once a bustling stop on the Mother Road before I-40
bypassed it, leaving the town to find new ways to survive.
This unique story of small-town resilience is part o
… More
Your unforgettable Route 66 adventure begins in Williams, AZ,
known as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon. This charming
town was once a bustling stop on the Mother Road before I-40
bypassed it, leaving the town to find new ways to survive.
This unique story of small-town resilience is part of what
makes your journey so special, and along the way, you’ll learn
all about the real-life inspiration for the Disney movie Cars.
Meet the beloved Tow Mater for a fun photo op and see
where the magic of Radiator Springs was born. Still more you’ll
See Grand Canyon Caverns, learn of the Natives still living in
Grand Canyon and much more!
Family-Friendly | On Route 66 | Kids Activities | Educational
YOU DRIVE one of our UTVs as you follow one of our expert guides taking you on an adventure of a lifetime. Our cross country leading to Grand Canyon is a full-day ride and our Verde River Tour is a 4-hour ride. All of our rides are radio-dispatched with check-in points to
… More
YOU DRIVE one of our UTVs as you follow one of our expert guides taking you on an adventure of a lifetime. Our cross country leading to Grand Canyon is a full-day ride and our Verde River Tour is a 4-hour ride. All of our rides are radio-dispatched with check-in points to assure your safety and well-being. Don’t worry about getting lost, you’ll be following one of our expert guides leading the way. Don’t worry about breaking down, we have staff standing by to come to the rescue. What we are trying to say is just don’t worry as you enjoy the adventure of a lifetime, and we’ll see ya on the trail.
Family-Friendly | Professionally Guided
World's Largest and Most Experienced Helicopter Sightseeing Company! Daily multilingual tours of Grand Canyon departing from Sedona, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Grand Canyon, Grand Canyon West and Las Vegas. Choose from a variety of Air Tours, River Rafting, Weddings including Grand Canyon hotels
… More
World's Largest and Most Experienced Helicopter Sightseeing Company! Daily multilingual tours of Grand Canyon departing from Sedona, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Grand Canyon, Grand Canyon West and Las Vegas. Choose from a variety of Air Tours, River Rafting, Weddings including Grand Canyon hotels, IMAX attractions, or even fly the Vegas strip by night.
Central Departure Location | Custom Options Available | Family-Friendly | Packages Available | Reservations Required | Romantic | Some Restrictions Apply | Flights from GCNP Airport | Flights from Las Vegas
Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and
… More
Arizona Private Tours is the leading private tour agency in Northern Arizona. We specialize in safe & sanitary custom tours. We pick up guests in Flagstaff and spend our day exploring scenic Arizona in an intimate setting with an expert guide in comfort. Our luxury SUV's will take you and up to 6 guests on a completely customizable tour of Northern Arizona. For majestic private Grand Canyon tours to Verde Valley Wine tours & ghost towns in the Sedona area, we cover it all. Let us create the custom tour of your dreams and know that we want to make this a day that you will remember for the rest of your life.
Family-Friendly | Custom Options Available | Professionally Guided | Multi-Attraction Trips | Antelope Canyon
Join us on one of our private Grand Canyon hiking tours and experience the canyon up close and personal! We offer guided hiking tours of the Grand Canyon on several of the best trails along the South Rim, departing from Flagstaff or Grand Canyon in the early morning. Our expert guides will
… More
Join us on one of our private Grand Canyon hiking tours and experience the canyon up close and personal! We offer guided hiking tours of the Grand Canyon on several of the best trails along the South Rim, departing from Flagstaff or Grand Canyon in the early morning. Our expert guides will discuss with you your experience and skill level in order to decide which hiking trails would be the best fit for you. Is there a specific trail you have been dying to hike? Great! Our professional guides are here to make sure you have the best experience possible. Because our hiking tours are completely private, your hiking experience is personalized and can be as long or as short as you want. On our Grand Canyon hiking tours, you can opt for a full day of hiking, or we can split the day between hiking and sightseeing. You’ll experience the canyon like never before. When you walk down the canyon, you are walking through geologic time. See the rock layers, and learn about the canyon’s millions of years of geologic history. Enjoy picture-perfect viewpoints along the trail and capture every breathtaking moment.
Professionally Guided | Lunch | Hotel Pick-ups | Shuttle Transportation
Maverick Helicopters provides helicopter tours over the Grand Canyon. Maverick brings VIP service to the canyon with climate-controlled helicopters and unobstructed views perfect for sightseeing. The best way to discover the incredible scenery of the Grand Canyon South Rim.
Packages Available | Custom Options Available | Flights from GCNP Airport
Don't just view the Canyon from the rim when you can fly the Grand Canyon with a legend! Since 1927, Grand Canyon Airlines has been the premier fixed wing provider of scenic Grand Canyon tour flights. Specially patented, exclusive aircraft provide crystal clear viewing with narration in ei
… More
Don't just view the Canyon from the rim when you can fly the Grand Canyon with a legend! Since 1927, Grand Canyon Airlines has been the premier fixed wing provider of scenic Grand Canyon tour flights. Specially patented, exclusive aircraft provide crystal clear viewing with narration in eight different languages. The classic Grand Discovery Tour is the ultimate Canyon view.
Family-Friendly | Central Departure Location | Packages Available | Horseshoe Bend | Antelope Canyon | Multi-Attraction Trips | Leaves from Page/Lake Powell | Optional River Trip | Optional Ground Tour | Leaves from Las Vegas | Leaves from GCNP
Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our profess
… More
Voted on Trip Advisor as the most popular Grand Canyon day tour. This is the best way to enjoy the Grand Canyon without doing any strenuous hiking. Nearly five millions people come to see the Canyon each year and many spend much of their time trying to figure out what to do. Our professional guides will make sure you get the most out of your trip. While touring in comfort you will learn about the geology and history of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The day tour includes short walks to some incredible "less-used" outlooks, a looking into some of the areas most impressive historic buildings, and time to browse resident art galleries and gift shops.
Family-Friendly | Trip starts in Flagstaff | Professionally Guided | Custom Options Available | Hotel Pick-ups | Lunch
Journey through stunning Arizona landscapes on this full-day tour from the Phoenix-Scottsdale area. Visit the Grand Canyon and explore Route 66 with an expert guide who handles all the driving and logistics, leaving you free to soak in the incredible scenery. Explore highlights of the Gran
… More
Journey through stunning Arizona landscapes on this full-day tour from the Phoenix-Scottsdale area. Visit the Grand Canyon and explore Route 66 with an expert guide who handles all the driving and logistics, leaving you free to soak in the incredible scenery. Explore highlights of the Grand Canyon, and drive through the Sonoran Desert on this small-group tour. With numbers limited to 13 participants, you can enjoy a more intimate experience of the Southwest's natural beauty. Choose between a small-group or private option.
Professionally Guided | Hotel Pick-ups | Family-Friendly | Private Trips
Located 1 mile from the National Park South Rim Entrance. Go beyond the rim in the spectacular IMAX adventure film shown on a 6-story high screen. The Visitor Center also includes Pink Jeep Tours, Pizza Hut Express and the world famous National Geographic Store.
Family-Friendly | Educational
Colorado River & Trail Expeditions offers rowing, paddle, motor, kayak support, and hybrid all-inclusive rafting trips. We offer a variety of trip lengths and options. We specialize in taking our clients to the best spots in the Grand Canyon. We pride ourselves in having friendly experi
… More
Colorado River & Trail Expeditions offers rowing, paddle, motor, kayak support, and hybrid all-inclusive rafting trips. We offer a variety of trip lengths and options. We specialize in taking our clients to the best spots in the Grand Canyon. We pride ourselves in having friendly experienced guides, serving great food, and supplying our customers with the most modern equipment and gear. In addition we are a member of various environmental groups and do our best to take care of the Grand Canyon and our Earth.
Professionally Guided | Trip Begins in Las Vegas
