When people think of the Grand Canyon, their mind's eye generally brings up a picture from the rim. They think of an enormous, spectacular, gaping hole that is best seen from the edge - an intimidating place best left unexplored by the average citizen. Not so. As a Grand Canyon guide I always try to convey that this is an amazing, three dimensional place that can be seen in many different ways from many different angles. With a little help from some respected vendors - you can experience many ways to see the canyon - at any age or fitness level. All will show you a different perspective of the canyon and help you to understand and respect various aspects of the place. Below is a guide to 6 ways to see this amazing place!
Grand Canyon by Boat:
The mighty Colorado River sits in the heart of the canyon. It cuts 277 miles into the canyon, boasting large rapids, soaring cliffs, impressive wildlife, and specularly beautiful side canyons. It's geological treasures are unmatched anywhere in the world. Trips range from 3 day to 14 day excursions with commercial companies. (available by motor or row boat). You can also get on the park's lottery list to optain a private permit. The canyon requires advanced boating skills and a significant amount of equipment so for most people - it's a less complicated option. The experience of boating the Grand Canyon is one of the most incredible experiences you will ever partake in. It's one of the last vacations where you can truly escape. Without cell phone coverage you will completely sever ties with the outside world outside of a couple of hours at Phantom ranch. You will sleep under the stars and get sand in your shorts - but when it comes to food you will not compromise your standards. Most companies offer gourmet "outdoor" dining through their trips. It's (in my opinion) the best way to see the canyon. Several companies offer river trips and all of them offer options that may fit better into your vacation plans. Start with contacting http://www.raftarizona.com/ - Arizona River Runners is an excellent outfitter and a good place to start your search.
Grand Canyon by Foot:
This is our favorite way to experience the Grand Canyon. On foot is where you can get up close and personalwith the canyon, see the fossils and rub the ancient soil in your hands. You'll have the most time of actually being at the Grand Canyon on foot, experiencing either a Grand Canyon day tour, Grand Canyon day hike, or an over night/ multiday hike into the heart of the chasm.
If you are traveling through the satellite cities of Flagstaff, Williams, or Tusayan there are quite a few choices in the way of guided Grand Canyon hikes and tours. Of course we believe that we offer one of the most educational, relaxing, all inclusive Grand Canyon tours and or day hikes . But there are other choices, if you happen to call us and we are booked we would like to recomend Silver Spur tours. They run a beautiful tours as well. Here is a link: www.silverspurtours.com/ .
There is so much to talk about as far as just how magical the Grand Canyon can be by foot, but our advice is to do your research and read through the websites to make your decision.
Grand Canyon by Air:
This is one area that we don't have a lot of experience. Our thoughts have always been that it seems a bit 2D. Here you are at the Grand Canyon, and now you are 100's of feet above it. You may have even seen the same sight through your airplane window on the way to "experience" the canyon. There are a few choices to make once you get to the Grand Canyon air port at Tusayan. Included in these choices are Papillion helicopter tours and Maverick air, both located at the Grand Canto air port.
There is a new service in the area of Northern Az that provides a custom airplane tour that tours other points of interest. Mountain goat air tours is a great choice to see the rest of N. Az . Each tour is a customized flight that caters to a small group of five. To learn more check out their website: www.mountaingoatairtours.com
Grand Canyon by Mule:
To see the Grand Canyon by mule is by far the most historic activity you and/or your family can participate in. Since the early days at Grand Canyon visitors have been setting foot in stirrup. To see the canyon this way is not for everyone though, it takes a little bit of mettle and a brave heart. The beast of burden that you just climbed onto has a different way of walking down those steep trails, kinda side to side like ya see. Not to mention most folks are not used to riding down hill for hours on end, but if your are feeling adventurous this is your ticket to the past. The mules are a challenging way to experience the canyon and they book fast.
To book you will have to contact Xanterra parks and resorts.
HAPPY TRAILS!!!
Grand Canyon by Car:
This is the option with the most freedom and is currently the most popular as well. You have two different options where to enter the park .There is the South entrance through the little village of Tusayan, via either Flagstaff or Williams, accessed via Hwy 64. To the east is the lesser known entrance, located about 30 miles away, accessed via Hwy 64 from Hwy 89A. If Staying in Flagstaff we recommend taking the loop drive to see the most of N.Az and the Navajo reservation. Give yourself plenty of time as this will take all day and cover close to 200 miles.
Although cars are the most popular option to see the canyon, they are not preferred. Be prepared for full parking lots and long lines to get in to the popular view points. The National Park Service is currently working on improvements, but construction can take years to finish. If you plan to visit Grand Canyon by vehicle, take into consideration the NPS shuttle that offers pick up in Tusayan, or after entering the park take the NPS shuttle to access all major view points and hiking trails. This we believe is a great way to see the park and has the benefits of being environmentally responsible to reduce your carbon foot print .
Also coming soon, there will be rental bikes located at the Canyon Visitor Information Plaza. This is a service that is not currently available, but slated for completion in 2011. If you are interested in renting bikes to see the canyon contact us and we would be happy to set up a unique tour that is affordable and fun!
Grand Canyon by Bike:
This is the least experienced way to see the Grand Canyon, but if you want to get away from the crowds bring your bike. The Grand Canyon has devoloped a 7 mile "greenway" that rides from the Grand Canyon village out to the West rim and ends up at Hermit's Rest. This is an incredible ride that you will not soon forget. The greenway to Hermit's Rest is closed to vehicles for the better part of the year, and is only accessed via NPS shuttle. That means that you will have the Grand Canyon to yourself. This trail is one of the least visited by people on bikes or foot. We recommend this version of transportation, above all others. If you are half way fit you can ride a bike along this relatively flat path. There is one hill at the very beginning, but don't let that stop you, there is no shame in pushing. Once your on top you'll have 6.5 miles of awesome views.
Don't forget to bring water and snacks as there are no amenities until you reach Hermit's rest. During the Monsoon season (late July thru September) bring rain poncho's, there is no real cover if you get caught in a thunderstorm.
If you would like the option of a guided bike ride contact us, and we will take care of all the details.
Well it's been long and there is lots of information , but we hope this helps to make your Grand Canyon experience a memorable one. If you still have questions that were not answered here feel free to give us a call 1-877-769-2269
No comments:
Post a Comment