Viewing the sunrise at the Grand Canyon should be high on everyone’s bucket list. It is worth it on so many levels. It’s quiet, the colours are vibrant and it is spectacular. Many of the photos of the Grand Canyon that you may have seen were taken during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Like the one above, in which I took on my first visit on a cool September morning in 2012.
Why Sunrise (and Sunset) at the Grand Canyon is so Spectacular
The Grand Canyon is one of the best places in the United States to witness a sunrise. Possibly even one of the best in the world. It is a sight to behold. The quietness of nature, the vivid colors, and the feeling that a new day is beginning. Seeing a photo pales in comparison to actually experiencing it for yourself.
Later in the day, the Grand Canyon is still spectacular but you will find that the sun is so bright and high in the sky. The effect this has on the landscape and the rocks below is that they appear to be washed out. It stays this way until about an hour before sunset during the second golden hour of the day.
Should I View the Sunrise, the Sunset, or Both?
If you only have enough time in your itinerary to make one or the other then I recommend the sunrise. At sunrise, the Grand Canyon is quiet and peaceful. Far fewer people are willing to get up in the early hours of the morning than view the sunset. Viewing a sunrise takes some effort and willpower whereas everyone will see the sunset because they are already out exploring. With that said, do both if you can because the colors just before and at sunset are also stunning.
The Best Place to Photograph the Sunrise
The best place to photograph the sunrise at the Grand Canyon depends on which side of the canyon you are on. Both the South Rim and the North Rim will provide you with a memorable experience. They will both treat you to excellent vibrant colours and great light. The only thing that matters is that you are looking in the right direction.
South Rim
On the South Rim, there are a number of viewpoints that are best suited to viewing the sunrise. These are Yaki Point, Hopi Point, and Yavapai Point. You may have to take an early morning shuttle bus to reach them. If the idea of taking an early morning shuttle is less appealing then walk along the Rim Trail near Mather Point and find a spot.
My personal favourite is Yaki Point. This is where the featured photo was taken. However, you will not be disappointed at any of the locations.
North Rim
The best place to watch the sunrise on the North Rim is at Cape. This 45-minute drive from the visitor center can seem a bit daunting in the dark but it is worth it. You will need to take extra care in case of a wildlife encounter. If this is too much then you will get a great view from Bright Angel Point near the visitor center. You can even stop for an early morning coffee at the Rough Rider Saloon.
When to Arrive for Sunrise at the Grand Canyon
Due to the natural movements of the Earth, there is no set time to go out and view the sunrise. It varies daily. Head on over to Time and Date and input the date you will be at the Grand Canyon. If for example, you will be visiting the Grand Canyon on September 5th and 6th as I did in 2012, you would find the sunrise time is 06:04 on the 6th. You should then allow enough time to get there around 15 minutes before this time from your hotel or campsite. There is no need to arrive an hour before sunrise or even half an hour before.
The best time to take photos of the sunrise at the Grand Canyon will be in the hour following the stated sunrise time. The photo featured at the top of this post was taken at 06:23. This was a good 19 minutes after the sun had risen. At sunrise time itself, the Grand Canyon will look quite dark as the photo below shows. This is still a good sight which is why you should get there in time for the stated sunrise time.
Keep in mind that the hour around sunrise can be a little chilly. The Grand Canyon is 7,000 feet (2,100 meters) above sea level at the South Rim. It is then a further 1,000 feet (300 meters) higher at the North Rim. This means that you should wear clothing that will keep you warm until the sun warms you up.
Visiting the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon’s South Rim is around a 4 hour and 15 minute drive from Las Vegas. The North Rim is about the same. It is then a 4 hour drive from one rim to the other. This means you should choose one rim to explore and make the most of it. For first time visitors you are best off visiting the South Rim because it is more developed. There are more accommodation options, a shuttle bus service and more viewpoints.
Keep in mind that in the busy summer months, accommodation will fill up fast. It is advisable to book as far in advance as you are able to. If you are on a budget then camping is a more affordable option, which I recommend. Campsites go on sale exactly 6 months prior to your date and fill up fast. Plan your trip far in advance to give yourself the best possible options.
