Grand Canyon Tourism Statistics - How Many People Visit?

Page last updated: 29 September 2024

The Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, continually attracts millions of travellers every year.

Overview

How many people visit the Grand Canyon each year?

Approximately 5 million visitors travel to the Grand Canyon each year.¹

In 2017, the Grand Canyon welcomed 6.25 million recreational visitors.

The following year (2018), there was a 2.08% increase with 6.38 million total visits, but the number decreased slightly in 2019 to 5.97 million.

The impact of global travel restrictions in 2020 caused a decline in visitors to 2.9 million.

Yet, there was a noticeable recovery with 4.53 million visitors in 2021, rising slightly to 4.73 million in 2022 as conditions began to normalise.

The Grand Canyon’s steady count of 4.73 million visits in 2023 indicated a stabilisation in tourism figures. This was a 4.4% increase from 2021 but still 20.7% down from 2019 figures.

How much do visitors spend at the Grand Canyon every year?

Tourists spend an average of $710 million visiting the Grand Canyon each year.

In 2017, visitor spending at the Grand Canyon reached $667 million. This figure peaked at $947 million in 2018 but then slightly declined to $891 million in 2019.

The pandemic’s impact in 2020 reduced spending at the Grand Canyon to $433 million, a 51.4% decrease from the previous year.

However, 2021 saw an increase in spending to $710 million, as travel activities resumed.

In 2022, spending at the Grand Canyon increased to $759 million, signalling ongoing recovery. This was a 6.9% increase from 2021 but still 14.8% down from 2019 figures.²

Where do visitors to the Grand Canyon come from?

The majority of international tourists visiting the Grand Canyon come from various countries, with the highest numbers from the United Kingdom (3.8%), Canada (3.5%), Japan (2.1%), Germany (1.9%), and the Netherlands (1.2%). This highlights the Grand Canyon’s appeal as a destination known all across the world.³

How many people visited the Grand Canyon in 2022?

In 2022, the Grand Canyon welcomed 4.73 million tourists.

This figure rose by 4.4% from the previous year, but when compared to visitor numbers in 2019, there was still a decrease of approximately 20.8%, indicating that visitor numbers had not yet fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels.

How much did tourists spend at the Grand Canyon in 2022?

Visitors to the Grand Canyon spent about $759 million in 2022.

This was a 6.9% increase from 2021 but did not match the spending recorded in 2019 ($891 million).

Impact of Coronavirus ‑ Grand Canyon Tourism Statistics 2020 and 2021

In 2020, tourism experienced a downturn, with total visits and visitor spending dropping to 2.9 million and $433 million, respectively. This represented a decrease of over 50% compared to 2019.

However, 2021 marked a turning point, with a 56.2% increase in visitor numbers and a 63.8% rise in spending from the previous year. While this recovery was a positive sign, the figures still fell short of 2019 levels.

How much money does the Grand Canyon make per year?

The Grand Canyon, one of the most visited national parks in the United States, plays an important role in generating economic benefits through tourism.

In 2022, the 4.73 million visitors to the Grand Canyon spent approximately $759 million in the surrounding regions. This spending supported nearly 9,991 jobs and contributed $1.01 billion to the local economy.

Is the Grand Canyon the most visited national park?

No, the Grand Canyon typically ranks as one of the most visited national parks, but it is not the most visited. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park consistently receives the highest number of annual visitors.

In 2023, the Grand Canyon was the 2nd most visited national park in the United States, with approximately 4.7 million visitors. However, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park claims the title of being the most visited national park, with over 12 million visitors annually.

When is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon?

The best time to visit the Grand Canyon depends on personal preferences for weather and crowd levels:

Spring (March to May): This is one of the best times to visit, with mild weather and fewer crowds compared to summer. The South Rim is fully accessible, and most facilities are open.

Fall (September to November): This season offers similar advantages to spring, with cooler temperatures and reduced visitor numbers, making it ideal for hiking and photography.

Summer (June to August): This is the busiest and hottest time, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). While the park is fully open, visitors can expect large crowds, especially at the South Rim.

Winter (December to February): This is the least crowded season, providing a peaceful experience. The North Rim is closed, but the South Rim remains open.

Overall, the most popular times of the year to visit are during the spring and fall months when the weather is pleasant and the park is less crowded.

How much does it cost to visit the Grand Canyon?

Visiting the Grand Canyon involves certain costs, the primary one being the entrance fee to the Grand Canyon National Park.

The entrance fee for the Grand Canyon is determined by the mode of entry: $35 for vehicles, $30 for motorcycles, and $20 for individuals on foot or bicycle. These fees grant access to the park for seven consecutive days.

Additional costs at the Grand Canyon can vary widely depending on accommodation, dining, and activities such as guided tours, helicopter rides, and mule trips.

What is the best part of the Grand Canyon to visit?

The South Rim is the most visited area of the Grand Canyon, attracting over 90% of the park’s visitors. It offers numerous viewpoints, including Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station, which provide some of the best vistas.⁴

How far is the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas?

The Grand Canyon West Rim is approximately 130 miles (about a 2.5-hour drive) from Las Vegas. The South Rim is about 280 miles away, typically a 4.5-hour drive.

What is the best way to travel to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas?

Visiting the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas can be done in several ways:

By Bus Tour: Several companies offer day trips to the Grand Canyon, including stops at Hoover Dam and other attractions.

By Air: Helicopter and aeroplane tours provide a quick and scenic way to see the canyon and are often combined with a ground tour.

By Car: Drive to either the West Rim or the South Rim. The West Rim is closer and more suitable for a day trip.

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What are some interesting facts about the Grand Canyon?

Here are some facts about the Grand Canyon that visitors should know:

Where is the Grand Canyon located?

The Grand Canyon is located in the state of Arizona in the United States. It is a part of the Colorado Plateau in northwestern Arizona and spans the Grand Canyon National Park.

How big is the Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon is approximately 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep at its deepest point, making it one of the largest canyons in the world.

How old is the Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon is estimated to be between 5 to 6 million years old. However, some parts of the canyon could be as old as 70 million years, with the oldest rocks dating back nearly 2 billion years.

How was the Grand Canyon formed?

The Colorado River played a crucial role in carving the Grand Canyon. It began carving through the rock layers around 5 to 6 million years ago, contributing to the canyon’s depth and shape.

What types of ecosystems are found in the Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon supports diverse ecosystems, ranging from desert basins to forests. It is home to more than 1,500 plant species, 355 bird species, 89 mammalian species, 47 reptile species, and 9 amphibian species.

Why is the Grand Canyon culturally important?

The Grand Canyon is sacred to many Native American tribes, including the Havasupai, Hopi, Navajo, and Paiute. These tribes have inhabited the area for centuries and regard the canyon as culturally and spiritually important.

How popular is the Grand Canyon as a tourist destination?

The Grand Canyon National Park is the second most visited national park in the United States, attracting about 5 million visitors each year.

What geological features make the Grand Canyon unique?

The Grand Canyon features nearly 40 major sedimentary rock layers, which provide a rich geological record. These layers allow scientists to study the Earth’s history, including ancient environments like seas and deserts.

How does the climate vary within the Grand Canyon?

The climate within the Grand Canyon varies with elevation. The South Rim can experience snowfall in winter, while the canyon floor can reach temperatures over 100°F (38°C) in summer.

What conservation efforts protect the Grand Canyon?

The Grand Canyon was designated a national park in 1919 and was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. These designations help preserve its natural beauty and ecological importance.

These facts highlight the Grand Canyon’s importance as a natural wonder and a cultural and historical landmark.

How many people fall to their death at the Grand Canyon?

Each year, an average of 12 people die at the Grand Canyon. These deaths result from various causes, including falls, heat-related illnesses, and drownings.⁵

About 2 to 3 deaths per year are due to falls from the canyon’s rim. Many of these falls occur when visitors venture too close to the edge for better views or photo opportunities.

How many selfie‑related deaths occur at the Grand Canyon every year?

Exact annual statistics for selfie-related deaths at the Grand Canyon are not available, as they are not separated from other falls. However, some reported incidents include⁶:

2015: A man fell while attempting to take a photo at the South Rim.
2019: A tourist fell 1,000 feet while taking a selfie at the Grand Canyon West Skywalk.

Overall, while selfies contribute to some incidents, they are only a portion of the total falls and fatalities at the Grand Canyon. About 2 to 3 deaths per year are due to falls from the canyon’s rim. For comparison, each year an average of 12 people die at the Grand Canyon. These deaths result from various causes, including falls, heat-related illnesses, and drownings

Safety tips for visiting the Grand Canyon

The odds of dying from falling off the Grand Canyon’s rim are about 1 in 1.95 million.

Following these safety precautions can help visitors enjoy the Grand Canyon safely:

Stay on Designated Trails and Viewing Areas: Visitors should avoid crossing barriers or railings.
Maintain a Safe Distance from the Edge: Unpredictable wind gusts and loose rocks can increase fall risks.
Be Cautious with Photos: Visitors should refrain from taking selfies near the edge or in unstable areas.
Stay Hydrated and Protect Against Heat: Visitors should bring plenty of water, especially during hot weather.
Respect Weather Conditions: Sudden weather changes can make trails slippery and dangerous.

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References

NPS: National Park Annual Visitation and Ranking ↩︎
NPS: National Park Annual Visitor Spending Effects – 2019 to 2022 report ↩︎
NAU: Grand Canyon National Park Tourism Study – Top Inbound Markets ↩︎
NPS: Planning a visit to Grand Canyon ↩︎
NPS: Mortality Data of National Parks ↩︎
HH: Grand Canyon Deaths Data Analysis ↩︎