Grand Canyon National Park
National park · Coconino County
Arizona
Highlights
Vast canyon, layered rock, hiking, camping, stargazing, Dark Sky Park
Vast canyon, layered rock, hiking, camping, stargazing, Dark Sky Park
"Paired with Zion on a five-day Intrepid Travel “Active-ism” itinerary, this iconic canyon destination combines hiking and other adventure activities with activist-led discussions designed to spotlight the challenges facing national parks. Departures are co-led by an Intrepid guide and guest activists (Alex Haraus on Nov. 1 and Wawa Gatheru on Apr. 14, 2026); the trip is priced from $1,446 and was developed in reaction to National Park Service staff reductions and a proposed $1 billion budget cut. Offered at a reduced cost to increase accessibility and uniquely featuring activist hosts among Intrepid's global trips, the experience is meant to inspire advocacy, volunteering, and other support for park staff and protections." - Katie Nadworny Katie Nadworny Katie Nadworny is an Istanbul-based writer who specializes in stories at the intersection of culture and politics in Turkey, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. She has lived in Turkey for nearly a decade and has traveled extensively around the region. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A 1,904-square-mile natural wonder in Arizona that has positioned sustainability at the core of its visitor experience. The park pairs dramatic vistas and historic traditions with eco-conscious operations: a vintage rail link shuttles guests to the South Rim in restored cars while musicians add Old West atmosphere, park kitchens divert unsightly produce to mule feed through Operation Shrivelly Apples, and mule manure is composted at scale. These efforts have included feeding over 76,000 pounds of recycled food scraps to the animals since 2013 and composting more than 700 tons of mule manure annually. Multiple on‑site restaurants hold top Certified Green Restaurant ratings and the park works with operators to measure and reduce energy, water and food use, minimize waste, and source sustainably." - Emily Hochberg
"Rounded out the top three with a score of 79.6 out of 100. "Another golden hour hotspot, the sun setting on the vast, layered rock formations ... scores it an impressive sunset score of 79.6 out of 100," the rankings noted. The write-up adds that sunsets here "offer something particularly special. The enormous canyon walls, with all their layers, radiate golden exuberance when the sun hits them," with travelers recommending locations like the South Rim or Mather Point to watch the sun go down." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Save 25% on Grand Canyon Railway getaway packages that include lodging, meals, and a train ride through the scenic national park."
"A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its immense and visually overwhelming landscape, featuring layered bands of red rock revealing millions of years of geological history."
