The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a unique attraction that captured global attention when it opened in 2007. This observation deck extends 66 ft over the rim of the Grand Canyon, and through its transparent floor, visitors can glimpse the base of the 787 ft cliff. Situated 128 mi east of Las Vegas, the Skywalk can be reached by car in approximately two and a half hours.
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Tips for Visitors
🗺️ Where Is the Grand Canyon Skywalk?
The attraction is situated in the northwestern part of the state of Arizona, roughly a two-and-a-half-hour drive east of Las Vegas. A car is the only mode of individual transport to the Grand Canyon Skywalk.
🕒 Opening Hours
The Grand Canyon Skywalk opens daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (from early March to October) and until 5:00 pm (from November to early March). The last tickets are sold half an hour before closing time.
🎟️ Grand Canyon Skywalk Tickets
Admission to the Grand Canyon Skywalk costs $79–$83 per person. This includes $51–$53 for the Grand Canyon West Indian Reservation entry and $28–$30 for the Skywalk. If you buy tickets at the last minute (1-2 days in advance), you will usually pay more.
For an additional cost, visitors can purchase a refreshments voucher for use at the Sky View Restaurant, Guano Café, and Gwe Ma’Jo Restaurant at $25. Adrenaline seekers can opt to add a zip-line ride for $45 or a helicopter ride for $299.
Advance tickets can be purchased at GrandCanyonWest.com. I last updated the prices on May 2, 2024.
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Origins of the Grand Canyon Skywalk
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is operated by the Hualapai Indian tribe who settled in the area and are now harnessing tourism to provide for future generations. The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a part of the Grand Canyon West complex, where other tourist activities are also offered.
The structure of the Grand Canyon Skywalk can carry up to 70 tons, equivalent to a thousand people weighing 154 lb. Visitors need not worry about the Skywalk breaking off and falling; at most, 120 people are allowed on the attraction at any given time. To protect the glass floor from scratches, all visitors are required to wear shoe covers.
Construction of the Skywalk began in March 2004, and the attraction was inaugurated on March 7, 2007, after a series of rigorous tests. The platform is reputed to withstand winds of up to 99 mph and earthquakes up to 8 on the Richter scale. Its construction cost the Hualapai Tribe $31 million.
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Is the Grand Canyon Skywalk Worth a Visit?
The decision to visit is subjective and depends on individual financial means as the cost for a few minutes’ walk on the Grand Canyon Skywalk is somewhat high. Looking through the glass floor at this unique world-class attraction makes for an interesting experience. However, if you’re on a tight budget, it might be best to skip the Skywalk.
One downside is the strict no-photography policy on the Grand Canyon Skywalk, as even cell phones are not permitted on the overlook. There are a few photographers on the bridge, but their photos can be expensive and the quality is not always exceptional. Still, if you want a picture on the Skywalk and you’re part of a group, divide yourselves. Those on the overlook can be photographed from the neighboring bistro area.
Nevertheless, I recommend a visit to Grand Canyon West. The Hualapai Legacy package is entirely sufficient. If you’re visiting the Las Vegas area, I suggest combining the tour with a convertible rental.
- For more tips, see Grand Canyon West
- Grand Canyon National Park
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Photos of the Grand Canyon Skywalk
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