Grand Canyon how long?

I always think of National Lampoon's Family Vacation when I think of the Grand Canyon. Been there once and if you aren't going to partake in getting down into it, then a day or so would be enough.

We will be going to Zion after south rim for 6 days I am just trying to balance the right number of days each. Also we will want a down day once at south rim because we will have two 400 mi days to get there. No kids this trip 4 adults (adults used loosely) 50s-60s

obgraham wrote:
I'm in the minority, I know: for me one day was enough. It's a big ditch. Nice to see it, then move on. Lots more interesting stuff to see!

Clark Griswold. :)

I dry camped and spent 4 days. Hiking there is really strenuous, so come in good shape!

To truly appreciate the Canyon you have to walk the rim.
Take the first morning shuttle to Hermits rest and walk back on the 8 mile trail.
With many stops for pictures it took me a whole morning.
After that, nothing else compared.

If you are not doing the mule rides or hiking down into the canyon then two days at Grand Canyon is enough for me. Move on to explore the area around Sedona, Az. Nice trails, Red rock buttes, shopping and restaurants. Just depends on what you like to do.

I'm in the minority, I know: for me one day was enough. It's a big ditch. Nice to see it, then move on. Lots more interesting stuff to see!

Depends on how active you really are. We've been many times, most recently this summer with a few of the grandchildren. The very first trip with the kids I planned a week. Two days was more than enough. With the kids, when I was young, we hiked a day, saw the exhibits, and drove the rim. Now, a few hours is enough. We look at the splendor from a few spots, had stayed and braved the cold for a spectacular sunset, never tried sunrise, not my thing. So if you like biking, you can easily spend a full day biking the south rim. If you do the I-Max thing you can spend a day with the movie and walking the displays at the South Rim, no too far away. Personally, I would basecamp in Williams, and spend a full day at Bearazona (for Adults and family alike), if the children are young enough a few hours at the DeerPark. You can bike the many trails around Williams or just ride through downtown Williams.
Have a wonderful time.
Happy Trails.

I think that amount of time is just right.