Exploring Grand Canyon West: My Epic Day at Eagle Point, Guano Point, Hualapai Village & the Skywalk!

Grand Canyon West had been on my travel bucket list for ages, and finally getting the chance to explore Eagle Point, Guano Point, Hualapai Village, and the famous Skywalk all in one day was nothing short of epic! From breathtaking views to cultural experiences and adrenaline-pumping moments, this adventure had it all.

Arriving at Grand Canyon West

The drive out to Grand Canyon West was exciting in itself—beautiful desert landscapes stretching for miles and that feeling of anticipation building with every passing minute.

Stockton Hill Road stretches north from Kingman all the way to the Hualapai Grand Canyon West area. Along the way, you’ll pass through parts of the Mojave Desert dotted with farms and ranches. As you keep driving, the scenery starts to shift — the road climbs into higher ground with rugged bluffs and beautifully eroded mesas. It’s a pretty cool drive if you’re into desert landscapes!

As soon as I arrived, I could tell this wasn’t your typical Grand Canyon experience. Managed by the Hualapai Tribe, Grand Canyon West has a special charm and authenticity to it.

Eagle Point at Grand Canyon West

First Stop: Eagle Point

I kicked things off at Eagle Point, and wow—it lived up to its name! The rock formation that resembles an eagle with outstretched wings is just incredible. You have to see it in person to really appreciate the scale and detail. Plus, the views from this spot are just jaw-dropping. Red rock cliffs dropping straight down to the Colorado River below… it's the kind of scenery that makes you just stand there in awe for a while.

The Skywalk was right there too, and I couldn’t resist. Walking out on that glass bridge, suspended 4,000 feet above the canyon floor? Yeah, it’s as thrilling as it sounds. Seeing the canyon stretch out beneath your feet is both terrifying and breathtaking at the same time. If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie like me, it’s a must-do.

It’s one thing to see the canyon from the rim, but it’s a whole other experience to feel like you’re floating above it.

A map on the wall with a sign saying 'you were here'; red walls and a blue ceiling

Skywalk, a glass platform stretching over the canyon with rugged cliffs and a blue cloudless sky

Unfortunately, they don't allow filming or taking personal photos on the Skywalk for safety and privacy reasons. So, while I couldn’t capture the experience on video, I did get some official photos that were totally worth it.

I spent some extra time at Eagle Point just wandering around and soaking in the views. There’s also a Native American Village exhibit that showcases authentic dwellings from various tribes, giving visitors a glimpse into their architectural styles and ways of life. It was fascinating to see how different tribes adapted to their environments over the years.

Hualapai Tribe performing a Traditional Dance

While I was there, I was lucky enough to witness a beautiful traditional dance and music performance by the Hualapai people. It was held under a large tent set up right next to the canyon’s edge, and the sound of drums and singing echoing through the open air made the moment feel incredibly special and immersive.

Hualapai Village

Exploring Hualapai Village

After Eagle Point, I wandered over to Hualapai Village. It’s a cool spot that offers a glimpse into the rich culture and history of the Hualapai Tribe. I checked out some traditional dwellings, watched performances, and even picked up a few handcrafted souvenirs. It felt genuine and welcoming—like the Hualapai people were really excited to share their heritage with visitors.

One of the highlights was chatting with some of the locals about their craft-making techniques. Their passion for preserving their culture was inspiring, and I couldn’t resist buying a few pieces to take home as souvenirs. It’s nice knowing that my purchases were supporting local artists directly.

Guano Point

The Views at Guano Point

Next up was Guano Point, and if you’re into panoramic views, this place is pure gold. I followed a little trail that led me out onto this narrow ridge with 360-degree views of the canyon. Seriously, you can see forever from up there. It’s a bit rugged, but that’s what makes it so special. Nothing between you and the view but open air.

Guano Point is one of the most breathtaking spots in Grand Canyon West, known for its dramatic scenery and unmatched 360-degree panoramic views. This rocky outcrop juts boldly into the canyon, offering visitors a chance to stand at what feels like the edge of the world.

Guano Point at Grand Canyon West

At the center is a natural pyramid-shaped hill that you can climb for even more spectacular vantage points. Once at the top, you're treated to sweeping views of the Colorado River winding its way through the canyon far below, framed by the rugged cliffs and layered rock formations that stretch out for miles in every direction.

Picnic Tables at Guano Point

At Guano Point, you’ll find picnic tables set just a few feet from the edge of the Grand Canyon — offering absolutely stunning, and slightly thrilling, views while you take a break.

Unlike more polished viewing areas, Guano Point retains a raw, untouched feel. There are no railings or paved paths here—just nature in all its powerful beauty. It's the perfect place to take in the vastness of the Grand Canyon, capture incredible photos, or just sit quietly and let the view sink in. Guano Point also has some fascinating history. It was once the site of a mining operation for bat guano (yes, bat poop!), which was considered valuable fertilizer. You can still see remnants of the old tramway system they used to haul the guano from the caves across the canyon. It’s a cool little piece of history that adds character to the location.

I spent way too much time just taking pictures and soaking it all in.

And yeah, it’s one of those spots where photos really don’t do it justice. The colours, the depth, the sheer vastness of it all—it’s something you have to experience firsthand.

Wrapping Up an Unforgettable Day

By the end of the day, I felt like I had seen so many sides of Grand Canyon West—natural beauty, cultural heritage, thrilling attractions—all in one adventure-packed visit. Eagle Point and the Skywalk were definitely the highlights for me, but Guano Point and Hualapai Village added so much character to the experience.

If you’re planning a trip to Grand Canyon West, definitely make time for all three points. Each one offers something totally unique. And if you’re like me, you’ll leave with a camera full of photos and memories that’ll stick with you forever.

Tips for Visiting Grand Canyon West

• Wear comfortable shoes! There’s a lot of walking and some uneven terrain, especially at Guano Point. I saw a few people wearing sandals struggling to keep their footing, so definitely wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking sandals with good grip. It’ll make your experience way more comfortable (and safer) when navigating the rocky climbs and loose gravel.

• Bring water and snacks, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months.

• The Skywalk doesn’t allow personal cameras or phones, so be prepared to pay for official photos if you want a souvenir shot.

• Take your time! There’s so much to see and experience, you’ll want to soak it all in.

• Consider spending the night nearby so you can enjoy a sunrise or sunset view of the canyon. It’s absolutely magical.

• Plan Ahead & Book Tickets Early: Grand Canyon West can get busy, especially during peak travel seasons. Purchase your tickets online in advance to save time and secure your preferred entry slot—especially if you want to do the Skywalk.

• Use the Shuttle System: Once you arrive, take advantage of the free shuttle buses that run between major points like Eagle Point, Guano Point, and Hualapai Ranch. They’re efficient and save energy for exploring instead of walking long stretches in the sun.

• Pack Sun Protection: Even if it’s not summer, the desert sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to stay protected while enjoying the viewpoints.

• Bring a Good Camera or Binoculars: While you can't take photos on the Skywalk itself, there are plenty of other photo-worthy spots! A camera with a zoom lens or binoculars also makes it easier to spot wildlife or unique rock formations across the vast canyon.

• Be Prepared for Wind: It can get very windy at the rim, especially at higher elevations like Guano Point. Dress in layers and secure any hats or loose items—you don’t want them flying into the canyon!

• Start Early in the Day: Arriving earlier helps you avoid crowds, take advantage of cooler temps, and get the best lighting for photography. Plus, you’ll have more time to explore all the stops without rushing.

• Bring Some Cash or a Credit Card: While most places accept cards, it’s good to have cash on hand for small purchases at local vendors or tipping guides if you join a tour.

• Travel Light, But Be Prepared: A small backpack is perfect for carrying essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a light jacket. You’ll want your hands free for climbing or taking photos.

• Learn About the Hualapai Tribe Before You Go: The land is owned and operated by the Hualapai Tribe. Taking a few minutes to read about their history and culture beforehand adds so much depth to the visit and helps you appreciate the experience even more.

• Check Out the Gift Shops and Artisans: There are beautiful handcrafted items made by local Native American artisans—great for meaningful souvenirs that support the community.

Final Thoughts

Grand Canyon West surpassed my expectations. It’s such a different experience compared to the National Park’s South Rim, and I loved how the Hualapai Tribe’s influence is woven throughout the attractions. From the thrilling walk on the Skywalk to the breathtaking views at Guano Point, and the cultural immersion at Hualapai Village, this trip had everything I could’ve hoped for.

Would I do it all over again? For sure! And next time, I’d love to catch a sunset from Guano Point. That view must be incredible. I’d also seriously consider staying overnight in one of the Hualapai cabins nearby. Spending the night on the rim of the Grand Canyon sounds like such an exciting, one-of-a-kind experience. Just imagining waking up to those canyon views or stargazing under the desert sky makes me want to start planning my return trip already.

🔗 Helpful Links for Planning Your Trip to Grand Canyon West

• 🌐 Official Grand Canyon West Website: Find tickets, operating hours, and everything you need to plan your visit directly from the source.

  
  

• Skywalk at Eagle Point: Info and Tickets

  
  

• Hualapai Cabins: Want to stay overnight near the canyon rim? Check out the Hualapai Cabins for a unique and unforgettable experience under the stars.

  
  

• Hualapai Village: Learn more about the cultural experience at Hualapai Village, where you can explore traditional dwellings, local art, and Native performances.

  
  

• Want to see Grand Canyon West from my point of view?

  
  

  Check out my personal video where I take you along for the full adventure—Eagle Point, Guano Point, the Skywalk, and more!

  
  

  👉 Watch the video here

  
  

Have you been to Grand Canyon West? What was your favourite part? Let me know in the comments below!