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Published Mar 13, 2024 · Updated Sep 24, 2026
The Grand Canyon, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, continually attracts millions of travelers every year.
How many people visit the Grand Canyon each year?
Around 4.4 to 4.9 million people visit the Grand Canyon each year, with 4.43 million in 2025.1
- Before the pandemic, visits were 6.25 million in 20172 and peaked at 6.38 million in 2018, before easing to 5.97 million in 2019.
- Visits fell to 2.9 million in 2020 during travel restrictions,2 then recovered to 4.53 million in 2021 and 4.73 million in 2022.
- They held at 4.73 million in 20232 and rose 4% to 4.92 million in 2024.3
- In 2025, visits fell 9.9% to 4.43 million, 25.8% below 2019, after the Dragon Bravo Fire closed the North Rim.4
How many people have visited the Grand Canyon in 2026 so far?
From January to August 2026, the Grand Canyon welcomed 2.8 million recreational visitors, according to preliminary National Park Service figures.5
| Month | 2026 visitors | 2025 visitors | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 181,861 | 191,862 | -5.2% |
| February | 193,887 | 206,935 | -6.3% |
| March | 375,342 | 350,351 | +7.1% |
| April | 418,913 | 460,907 | -9.1% |
| May | 428,343 | 508,642 | -15.8% |
| June | 392,770 | 455,209 | -13.7% |
| July | 405,435 | 459,269 | -11.7% |
| August | 401,042 | 423,811 | -5.4% |
| January–August total | 2,797,593 | 3,056,986 | -8.5% |
Source · National Park Service, Recreation Visitors By Month (1979 - Last Calendar Year), Grand Canyon NP; checked September 23, 2026
How much do visitors spend at the Grand Canyon every year?
Tourists spent an average of about $760 million a year visiting the Grand Canyon from 2017 to 2024.6
- 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 2019.6
- The pandemic’s impact in 2020 reduced spending at the Grand Canyon to $433 million, a 51.4% decrease from the previous year.6
- However, 2021 saw an increase in spending to $710 million, as travel activities resumed.6
- In 2022, spending at the Grand Canyon increased to $759 million, signaling ongoing recovery. This was a 6.8% increase from 2021 but still 14.8% down from 2019 figures.6
- Visitor spending further increased to $768 million in 2023 (1.3% increase over 2022) and $905 million in 2024 (17.8% increase over 2023).6
How much did tourists spend at the Grand Canyon in 2024?
- Visitors to the Grand Canyon spent about $905 million in 2024.7
- This was a 17.8% increase from 2023 and surpassed the spending recorded in 2019 by 1.6%.6
How much does it cost to visit the Grand Canyon?
In 2024, visitors to the Grand Canyon spent an average of $184 per person during their trip. This figure captures spending on lodging, meals, park entry fees, guided tours, souvenirs, and transportation within the area.
- The estimate is based on total visitor spending of $905 million spread across 4.92 million guests who explored the park that year.7
This average cost was determined by dividing the overall tourism expenditure for 2024 by the number of recorded visitors to the Grand Canyon.
How do visitors spend their money on the Grand Canyon?
- In 2024, visitors to the Grand Canyon spent a total of $312 million on lodging, making it the highest expenditure.6
- Recreation and restaurant spending totaled $166 million and $148 million respectively.6
- Transportation accounted for $103 million, while retail spending reached $58.1 million.6
- Other expenditures included gas ($56.9 million), groceries ($47.6 million), and camping ($12.8 million).6
Where do visitors to the Grand Canyon come from?
Most visitors to the Grand Canyon come from within the US. 83% of visitors lived in the US and 17% came from abroad.8
- Top US states: California (12.2%), Arizona (8.9%), Texas (4.8%), Florida (3.4%) and New York (3.2%).
- Top countries outside the US: the United Kingdom (3.8%), Canada (3.5%), Japan (2.1%), Germany (1.9%) and the Netherlands (1.2%).8
This 2005 study is still the most recent published breakdown of the park’s visitors by where they come from.
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 2019.6
- However, 2021 marked a turning point, with a 56.5% increase in visitor numbers and a 63.9% rise in spending from the previous year. While this recovery was a positive sign, the figures still fell short of 2019 levels.6
Economic Impact 2024 – Grand Canyon Tourism Statistics
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 2024, the 4.92 million visitors to the Grand Canyon spent approximately $905 million in the surrounding regions. This spending supported nearly 8,780 jobs, generated $393 million in labor income, and added $698 million in value to the local economy.7
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 2024, an estimated 4.92 million visitors traveled to the Grand Canyon.7 Their spending totaled approximately $905 million in nearby communities. This visitor spending supported thousands of local jobs and generated significant income for regional businesses, showcasing the park’s vital role in the tourism 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 2025, the Grand Canyon was the 4th most visited national park in the United States, with approximately 4.43 million visitors.1 However, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park claims the title of being the most visited national park, with about 11.5 million visitors in 2025.
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.
- In 2025, May recorded the highest visitation, with 508,642 visitors, making it the peak month for tourism at the Grand Canyon.5
- April and July followed closely with 460,907 and 459,269 visitors, indicating high tourist activity from spring through summer.5
- June also remained a busy month, attracting 455,209 visitors, while August saw 423,811 visitors.5
- January was the quietest month, with 191,862 visitors.5
What is the best part of the Grand Canyon to visit?
How far is the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas?
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 airplane 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.
- Many travelers choose to include this route as part of road trips in the US, enjoying iconic desert landscapes and scenic highways.
Car and campervan rental for a Grand Canyon trip
What are some interesting facts about the Grand Canyon?
Where is the Grand Canyon located?
The Grand Canyon is in northwestern Arizona in the United States. It is part of the Colorado Plateau and lies within 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 world12.
How old is the Grand Canyon?
The Grand Canyon is estimated to be between 5 and 6 million years old.13 The rocks it cuts through are far older, with the oldest 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 ago13, 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 species12.
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?
Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, ranking fourth in 2025 with about 4.4 million visitors.1
What geological features make the Grand Canyon unique?
Nearly 40 identified rock layers form the Grand Canyon's walls, providing a rich geological record.14 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 recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 197915. These designations help preserve its natural beauty and ecological importance.
More Statistics
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- San Diego Tourism Statistics
- Statue of Liberty Tourism Statistics
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- Walt Disney World Tourism Statistics
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.16
- About 2 to 3 deaths per year are due to falls from the canyon’s rim.16 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 include16:
- March 2019: A 50-year-old man from Hong Kong fell to his death while taking a selfie at Eagle Point overlook, near the Skywalk at Grand Canyon West.
- April 2019: A 67-year-old man from Hong Kong lost his footing while taking a selfie near the Yavapai Geology Museum on the South Rim and fell 400 feet.
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.16 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 1 in 1.8 million visitors.16
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.
References
- National Park Annual Visitation · irma.nps.gov ↑ b c
- NPS Visitor Use Statistics — Annual Park Recreation Visitation (1904 - Last Calendar Year), Grand Canyon NP · irma.nps.gov ↑ b c
- Statistical Abstract: 2024 (Science Report NPS/SR—2025/271) — National Park Service · irma.nps.gov ↑
- Statistical Abstract: 2025 — National Park Service Visitor Use Statistics · irma.nps.gov ↑ b c
- NPS Visitor Use Statistics — Recreation Visitors By Month (1979 - Last Calendar Year), Grand Canyon NP · irma.nps.gov ↑ b c d e f g h
- NPS Visitor Spending Effects — park results for Grand Canyon NP (visitor spending by sector and by year, VSE data API behind the NPS VSE interactive tool) · irmaservices.nps.gov ↑ b c d e f g h i j k l m
- 2024 National Park Visitor Spending Effects: Economic Contributions to Local Communities, States, and the Nation (NPS Visitor Spending Effects report series) · nps.gov ↑ b c d
- Grand Canyon National Park Tourism Study – Top Inbound Markets · in.nau.edu ↑ b
- Groundbreaking Visitor Survey Sheds Light on Key Challenges · grandcanyon.org ↑
- Yavapai Geology Museum - Grand Canyon National Park · nps.gov ↑
- Drive From Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon | Vegas.com · vegas.com ↑
- Nature — Grand Canyon National Park (U.S. National Park Service) · nps.gov ↑ b
- Geology - Grand Canyon National Park (U.S. National Park Service) · nps.gov ↑ b
- Geologic Formations - Grand Canyon National Park (U.S. National Park Service) · nps.gov ↑
- National Park Service — Grand Canyon Visitation Statistics · nps.gov ↑
- Grand Canyon Deaths Data Analysis · hastingsandhastings.com ↑ b c d e
