The Grand Canyon is an iconic American destination, and the Skywalk, a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that extends 70 feet over the canyon’s edge offers visitors a thrilling perspective. But is it worth the time, money, and effort to include it in your itinerary? Based on a trip that included a hotel pickup from the Excalibur in Las Vegas, a flight from Boulder City over the Hoover Dam, and a visit to the Skywalk, here’s what you need to know to decide for yourself.
The Journey: From Vegas to the Canyon
Our trip began with a convenient pickup from the Excalibur Hotel in Las Vegas. The transport to Boulder City was smooth and well-organized, offering a chance to relax before the main adventure began. From Boulder City, we boarded a small plane for a scenic flight to the Grand Canyon West.
One of the highlights of the flight was soaring over the iconic Hoover Dam, an engineering marvel that spans the Colorado River. Seeing the dam from above gave us a unique appreciation of its scale and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. It was a fantastic start to the trip and added a layer of excitement to the journey.
The rest of the flight provided breathtaking views of the desert terrain, the winding Colorado River, and the sheer expanse of the Grand Canyon, offering a perspective you simply can’t get from the ground.
The Skywalk Experience
Upon arrival, we headed to the Grand Canyon Skywalk, located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation. The Skywalk itself is an engineering marvel, with its glass-bottom walkway giving visitors the impression of walking on air above the canyon floor, nearly 4,000 feet below.
The views are undoubtedly spectacular, providing a unique vantage point that you won’t get from the rim alone. However, there are a few considerations that might impact your experience:
- Crowds: The Skywalk is a popular attraction, and depending on the time of day, it can get crowded. This can slightly detract from the serene experience many seek at the Grand Canyon.
- Photo Policy: Personal cameras and phones are not allowed on the Skywalk, which some visitors find disappointing. Professional photographers are available to take pictures for a fee, but it adds to the cost of an already pricey experience.
- Cost: Tickets to the Skywalk are an additional expense on top of the general entry fee to Grand Canyon West. While the views are stunning, some may find the price tag steep compared to other Grand Canyon experiences. On our visit the cost was around $30 / £25.
Is It Worth It?
Whether the Grand Canyon Skywalk is worth it depends on what you’re looking for:
- Yes, it’s worth it if…
- You love adrenaline-pumping experiences and the thought of walking on glass over the canyon excites you.
- You want a unique, once-in-a-lifetime perspective of the Grand Canyon.
- Convenience is key, and you value the ease of an all-in-one package, including transport, aerial views, and the Skywalk.
- Maybe not worth it if…
- You’re on a tight budget and prefer more cost-effective ways to experience the Grand Canyon.
- The crowds and photography restrictions dampen the appeal of the Skywalk.
- You’d rather hike or explore the canyon in a more natural, immersive way.
Our Verdict
For us, the combination of a scenic flight, including the unforgettable aerial view of the Hoover Dam, and the Skywalk was a memorable and exciting way to experience the Grand Canyon. The journey from Las Vegas added to the adventure, and while the Skywalk itself may not appeal to everyone, it’s undoubtedly a unique way to take in one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders.
If you’re short on time or looking for an accessible way to enjoy the Grand Canyon’s splendor, the Skywalk is worth considering. However, for those seeking solitude, budget-friendly options, or a more traditional canyon experience, there may be better alternatives.
Pro Tip: If you do decide to visit, consider the time of year and day to avoid peak crowds, and be prepared for the added costs of photos and tickets. And don’t forget to savor the breathtaking views of the Hoover Dam during your flight, it’s a sight you’ll never forget!