The Grand Canyon is a unique natural wonder of the world. It’s so big that you can’t see from one end to the other. And it’s so old that parts of it are filled with fossils from millions of years ago. But there’s one thing arguably more impressive than everything else: The Skywalk.
At 1,000 feet above the bottom of the canyon and 4,000 feet above sea level, this is one of the most thrilling ways to experience the Grand Canyon.
The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is the perfect place to stay when visiting Tusayan and the Grand Canyon. The hotel features a bar, restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and shared lounge, as well as free WiFi throughout the property. The accommodations include an indoor pool, evening entertainment, and family rooms. With its convenient location and ample amenities, The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is the ideal choice for your next vacation.
If you're looking for an authentic old west experience, look no further than the Grand Canyon Western Ranch. Set on an active ranch with horseback riding and wagon rides, these cottages offer rustic charm and private entrances. You can also book a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon for an unforgettable experience. The cottages feature log walls and ceilings, and are decorated in authentic old west style.
Looking for a place to stay while you explore the Grand Canyon? Look no further than Maswik Lodge! This hotel is nestled within several acres of Ponderosa pine forest and is located just a short quarter-mile walk or bus ride from the canyon's edge. Not to mention, it has two restaurants and a bar/lounge on site so you can relax after a long day of exploring. Book your stay today and experience the beauty of the Grand Canyon up close and personal!
The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is the perfect place to stay when visiting Tusayan and the Grand Canyon. The hotel features a bar, restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and shared lounge, as well as free WiFi throughout the property. The accommodations include an indoor pool, evening entertainment, and family rooms. With its convenient location and ample amenities, The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is the ideal choice for your next vacation.
If you're looking for an authentic old west experience, look no further than the Grand Canyon Western Ranch. Set on an active ranch with horseback riding and wagon rides, these cottages offer rustic charm and private entrances. You can also book a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon for an unforgettable experience. The cottages feature log walls and ceilings, and are decorated in authentic old west style.
Looking for a place to stay while you explore the Grand Canyon? Look no further than Maswik Lodge! This hotel is nestled within several acres of Ponderosa pine forest and is located just a short quarter-mile walk or bus ride from the canyon's edge. Not to mention, it has two restaurants and a bar/lounge on site so you can relax after a long day of exploring. Book your stay today and experience the beauty of the Grand Canyon up close and personal!
What is the Grand Canyon Skywalk?
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that stretches over the canyon’s lip. It is made of four layers of glass and is supported by steel beams. The Skywalk was designed to withstand winds up to 100 miles per hour and the weight of up to 800 people.
Grand Canyon Skywalk extends 70 feet out from the canyon wall and 4000 feet above the Colorado River. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Arizona and offers visitors stunning canyon views.
Standing on the glass bridge and looking down into the canyon is an experience that is not to be missed. The canyon views are simply breathtaking, and the experience is one that you will never forget.
History
The Grand Canyon Skywalk opened in 2007 and until then, the only creatures able to experience the sensation of floating effortlessly above the colorful walls of the Grand Canyon were its native eagles.
But with the opening of the Skywalk in March 2007, tourists from all over the world have been enjoying that fantastic feeling – and you can, too!
The Skywalk is owned and operated by the Hualapai Indians, and it’s located on Hualapai land, outside of Grand Canyon National Park. This astonishing cantilevered bridge is a marvel of engineering and a breathtaking experience.
Building the Skywalk
From start to finish, building the Skywalk was a daunting task. Every piece of equipment and every nut and bolt was transported by truck over bumpy unpaved roads to a site with no power and no water.
The bridge’s design had to provide a clear, unobstructed view of the canyon below while remaining structurally sound and environmentally safe.
The walkway is anchored to the cliff with 40-foot welded beams sunk deep into the rock without cutting into the cliff face. It contains 900 pounds of glass panels and weighs over a million pounds.
Because of its size and weight, the bridge was built first and then moved into position overlooking the canyon with a complex system of padded steel bars and counterweights.
See Related: The Awesome Spectacle of Niagara Falls
How to Get to the Grand Canyon Skywalk
The Skywalk is located on the Hualapai Tribe reservation, about 120 miles from Las Vegas.
The best way to get there is by taking a tour from Vegas – several companies offer both helicopter and airplane tours that include a stop at the Skywalk.
There are also a few companies that offer tours from Phoenix and Sedona. It is also accessible from Grand Canyon West Airport. If you’re driving from Vegas, take US-93 south to I-40 west. From there, take Exit 4 for AZ-67 north towards Peach Springs.
Once you’re in Peach Springs, follow the signs to Grand Canyon West – the turnoff is about 10 miles outside of town. The drive from Vegas takes about three and a half hours. If on tour, you’ll get to ride the hop-off shuttle service.
Once you’re at Grand Canyon West, you’ll need to purchase a ticket to access the Skywalk – tickets are $32 for adults and $26 for children ages 3 to 11. Book your tickets in advance to secure your spot for one of the most epic views of the Grand Canyon.
A meal ticket is also available. You can also add on a tour of the Hualapai Ranch and a boat ride down the Colorado River for an additional cost. Tours typically last between four and five hours. If you want to see the beauty of the Grand Canyon book a flight now and find the cheapest rates at Skyscanner.
See Related: The Ultimate Grand Circle Road Trip
What to Expect at the Skywalk
Standing on the Grand Canyon Skywalk
From a height of 4000 feet above the canyon floor, visitors are standing higher than the top floor of the world’s tallest skyscraper – so it’s no surprise that many people initially feel a bit of vertigo!
The clear glass walkway and floor allow scenic viewpoints of the canyon below and provide the illusion of floating or flying. It’s truly the ultimate way to view the magnificent vistas of Grand Canyon West.
Visitors to the Grand Canyon Skywalk are asked to leave cameras and cellphones at the entrance and are issued protective shoe coverings to keep the floor made of glass unscratched. The Canyon Skywalk can be reached via several different tours or by making reservations directly with the Hualapai Nation.
Skywalk Café
The Skywalk Café is a restaurant that is located on the Canyon Skywalk. It offers a variety of food items, including sandwiches, salads, and desserts. The café also has a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
The café is also home to a gift shop. The shop sells various items, including books, clothing, and souvenirs.
Hualapai Reservation
The Hualapai Reservation is located in northwestern Arizona. It is home to the Hualapai Tribe, one of the largest tribes in the United States. The reservation has a population of about 1,500 people. The tribe’s name means “People of the Tall Pines.”
The Havasupai Tribe has lived in the Grand Canyon for centuries.
The tribe’s reservation is located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The Hualapai Tribe owns the Canyon Skywalk, which is a glass bridge that allows visitors to walk 70 feet over the edge of the canyon.
See Related: Tourist-Friendly Native Indian Reservations to Visit
Nearby Attractions to Visit
1. Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend is a horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River located near the town of Page, Arizona, in the United States.
It is located on the Navajo Nation land, about 4 miles (6.4 km) downstream from the Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell. Horseshoe Bend is viewable from U.S. Route 89, which runs alongside the river in this area.
A popular hiking trailhead is located a short distance from the highway; the round trip hike to the overlook is about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and gains approximately 1000 feet (300 m) in elevation.
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2. Marble Canyon
The Marble Canyon is located in northern Arizona and is part of the Grand Canyon. It is a steep-walled gorge that the Colorado River carved. The Marble Canyon is much narrower than the Grand Canyon, and it has a more rugged appearance.
The canyon is named for the marble found on its walls. Havasupai Falls is located in the southwestern part of the Grand Canyon. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the canyon.
See Related: Best Things to do in Arizona & Places to Visit
3. Havasu Falls
The Havasu Falls are a series of waterfalls located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation in Arizona. The falls are approximately 100 miles (161 km) from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim and form the headwaters of the blue-green Havasu Creek, which flows into the Colorado River.
The Havasu Falls are often cited as visiting falls, and one must first obtain a permit from the Havasupai Tribe. The tribe limits the number of visitors to their reservation, and permits are only available through an online lottery system in February each year.
The best time to visit the Havasu Falls is between March and June; when the weather is warm and the water gets to the falls, visitors must hike 10 miles (16 km) from the Hualapai Hilltop trailhead.
See Related: Where to Stay in Grand Canyon National Park: Best Areas
4. Toroweap Point
Toroweap Point is an observation point on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It offers some of the best views of the canyon and is a popular spot for photographers and hikers.
The point is located at the end of a 3-mile dirt road, only open during the summer months. Point is another popular observation point on the North Rim and is located just a short hike from Toroweap Point.
5. Tule Valley
The Tule Valley is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. The steep walls and jagged peaks of the canyon create a majestic landscape.
Traveling through the valley is an adventure in itself, but the real highlight is the scenic viewpoints of the canyon floor from the Grand Canyon Skywalk. Standing on the glass and looking at Downfall Valley is an adventure not to be missed.
6. Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is a concrete arch-gravity dam in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, on the border between the U.S. states of Arizona and Nevada. It was constructed between 1931 and 1936 during the Great Depression and was dedicated on September 30, 1935, by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
The dam was named after Herbert Hoover visited the Grand Canyon, and is not complete without a stop at the Hoover Dam. The dam is an impressive feat of engineering, and the views from the top are breathtaking.
The best way to experience the dam is to take a Hoover Dam tour, many of which depart from Las Vegas. Tours are available that take you to the top of the dam, and tours that take you inside the dam visit to the Grand Canyon are not complete without a stop at the Hoover Dam.
7. Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon in the American Southwest. It is on Navajo land near Page, Arizona. Antelope Canyon includes two main sections, Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. Upper Antelope Canyon is more open and easy to visit, while Lower Antelope Canyon has more difficult access and is more popular with photographers.
See Related: Best National Parks to Visit in November
8. Grand Canyon Village
The Skywalk is a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience. It offers visitors a chance to walk out 70 feet beyond the canyon’s edge and gaze down at the rocky slopes 4,000 feet below. But what many people don’t know is that just a short walk from the skywalk is the Native American Village or the Grand Canyon Village.
The village is also home to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, which offers information and exhibits on the geology, history, and wildlife of the Grand Canyon.
With its convenient location and wide range of amenities, Grand Canyon Village is an ideal base camp for exploring one of America’s most iconic natural wonders.
See Related: Best Day Trips from Phoenix, Arizona
9. Diamond Bar Road
Just a few miles east of the Grand Canyon Skywalk, motorists will find themselves on Diamond Bar Road. This route winds its way through some of the most picturesque landscapes in Arizona, offering stunning views of the Vermilion Cliffs and the Paria River Valley.
The road is also home to several popular attractions, with Mine Canyon being one of the most popular destinations along the road. This canyon is known for its red rock formations and breathtaking views. The area is also home to some hiking trails, making it the perfect place to explore the desert landscape.
10. Eagle Point
Eagle Point is one of the best viewing points on the Skywalk. It offers visitors a panoramic view of the entire canyon and the Colorado River below. From here, you can see for miles in every direction.
Eagle Point is also home to several interesting Native American artifacts, which add to the experience of visiting this amazing natural wonder.
11. Colorado River
The horseshoe bend on the Colorado River is a fantastic sight to see. The river curves around a horseshoe-shaped cliff, making for a beautiful view.
It’s no wonder that this site is a popular tourist destination. The colors of the rocks and water are stunning, and it’s hard to believe that you’re looking at a real place and not a painting. A half-day rafting trip is among the best things to do on the Colorado River.
If you want to get an up-close look at the horseshoe bend, you can do so by walking on the Skywalk.
12. Grand Canyon West Area
Visiting Grand Canyon West is ideal. It is located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation and is open to the public. There are many activities available, including a visit to the Canyon Skywalk.
The Skywalk is a glass bridge that extends 70 feet beyond the canyon’s edge and offers stunning views of the Colorado River 4,000 feet below. There are also hiking and biking trails, horseback riding on the canyon rim, and a restaurant.
13. Guano Point
The view from Guano Point on the Grand Canyon Skywalk is simply stunning. You can see for miles in either direction, and the colors of the canyon walls are amazing. If you’re looking for a breathtaking view, this is the place.
There are plenty of things to do in Guano Point, and one of the most popular is to walk on the Skywalk.
This horseshoe-shaped bridge extends 70 feet from the canyon’s rim and offers breathtaking views of the Colorado River 4,000 feet below. Visitors can also enjoy ranger-led talks, hikes, and astronomy programs.
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Best Places to Stay near the Grand Canyon Skywalk
Best Luxury Hotels
The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon
The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is a luxurious and iconic property that offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience.
The hotel features stunning canyon views and world-class amenities, including an on-site restaurant, bar, and gift shop. Guests can also enjoy access to the hotel’s pool and fitness center.
Residence Inn by Marriott Flagstaff
The Residence Inn by Marriott Flagstaff is an excellent place to stay while visiting the Grand Canyon Skywalk and Eagle Point. It’s close to the park and offers all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi.
The staff is friendly and helpful, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable. Breathtaking views await you at the Canyon Skywalk, located just a short drive from the Residence Inn by Marriott Flagstaff.
Best Mid-Range Hotels
Grand Canyon Western Ranch
The Grand Canyon Western Ranch is a dude ranch located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
It offers horseback riding, hiking, and wagon rides. The ranch also has a restaurant, gift shop, and bar.
The Grand Canyon Western Ranch provides several different amenities for its guests. These include a heated pool, a hot tub, horseshoes, a playground, and a petting zoo. The ranch is also adjacent to the Grand Canyon, making it the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to explore the area…dude.
Meadview Lake Motel
The Meadview Lake Motel is a great place to stay while exploring the Grand Canyon Skywalk. It’s just a short drive away from the Skywalk and offers comfortable rooms and friendly service. The motel also has a heated pool and Jacuzzi, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
The accommodation offers an unbeatable view of the Grand Canyon. So whether you’re planning to take a walk on the wild side or want to enjoy a stunning natural wonder, the Meadview Lake Motel is the perfect place.
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Best Budget Hotels
Maswik Lodge
The Maswik Lodge is a great place to stay when visiting the Grand Canyon. It’s located close to the park entrance and offers easy access to all of the canyon’s highlights. The lodge has various room types, including standard rooms, suites, and cabins. It also has a restaurant, gift shop, and several others!
Happy Trails Campground & Mini Motel
The Happy Trails Campground & Mini Motel is a great place for a vacation! The staff are friendly and always willing to help, and the facilities are top-notch. I highly recommend this campground to anyone looking for a relaxing getaway.
The campground offers a variety of amenities for its guests.
These include a swimming pool, horseshoes, a playground, and a mini-mart. The campground is also within walking distance of the Canyon Skywalk and Eagle Point.
Conclusion
If you want to get an up-close look at the horseshoe bend, you can take a walk on the Grand Canyon Skywalk. Whether you’re planning to take a walk on the wild side or just want to enjoy a stunning natural wonder, the Meadview Lake Motel is the perfect place for you.
If all of these options are unavailable or you are looking for something different, consider the Residence Inn by Marriott Flagstaff.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Grand Canyon and more travel guides, subscribe to our newsletter and check out our YouTube channel.
FAQ
What is the Grand Canyon Skywalk?
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that hangs 4,000 feet above the Colorado River on the edge of the Grand Canyon West Rim.
It was designed by David Jin, an engineer, and architect from Las Vegas, and was completed in March 2007. The skywalk can hold up to 800 people at one time.
Is the Skywalk Safe?
Grand Canyon Skywalk is safe to visit. If you plan a trip to Las Vegas, the Skywalk makes for great, safe inclusion to blow the mind.
There is regular maintenance and constant testing of the glass on this architectural triumph located in Arizona at Grand Canyon West near Flagstaff.
They monitor progress with sensors applied to the exterior of you dare to walk in the air and take in the views of one of America’s most impressive wonders – the Grand Canyon.
Does the Grand Canyon have a glass floor?
Again, yes, the Grand Canyon Skywalk has a glass floor and a glass deck that offers visitors a unique view of the canyon below.
How far is the Grand Canyon Skywalk from other popular attractions?
The Skywalk is approximately thirty minutes from the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
It takes about fifteen minutes to drive to each location, and the parking lot at Mather Point, Imperial Point, or Yavapai Observation Station is a short walk from the Skywalk.
Las Vegas is just over 2 hours away.
What type of clothing should I wear on the Grand Canyon Skywalk?
On the Grand Canyon Skywalk, it is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
While on the Skywalk, you will be required to have a safety harness on, so loose-fitting clothing is not recommended. Shorts or pants with a zipper are best. You may also want to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect you from the sun.
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