When asked about the one place in the U.S. that a person should see before they die, most folks would name the Grand Canyon. I tend to agree – it is one of the most amazing and awe-inspiring sites of nature, and photos simply do not do it justice. People generally say that the mere size of it surpassed their expectations.
So….how does a person make the most out of a trip to the Grand Canyon? Regardless of how much time they have, travelers can have a fulfilling experience.
Itinerary #1 – One day at the canyon
Even if just passing through on the way to another destination, it’s worth the detour to take in the majesty of the Grand Canyon. Take a tour from a park ranger to the South or West Rim where you can go on the Skywalk. You can also hike the Bright Angel trail on your own – a mile or two in and then back up. Make sure to stop at the Hopi House before heading out to check out a large selection of beautiful, native american crafts.
Itinerary #2 – Three days at the canyon
With a more than a single day, visitors can actually pack in quite a few activities at the Grand Canyon.
Day one – take the guided tour mentioned in Itinerary #1. Check in at one of the many lodges – Bright Angel is one of my favorites, where you can get a cabin with a private bath for under $100/night. Have a nice meal at the El Tovar Dining room and get to bed so you’ll be ready for an early morning the next day.
Day two – see the sunrise at either Mather or Yaki points. Getting up early will have created quite an appetite, so go back to El Tovar for a hearty blue corn pancake breakfast (don’t forget the prickly pear syrup!). Then take part in the century-old tradition of a mule ride down into the canyon. In the afternoon, attend a park ranger wildlife talk and take a 2-mile roundtrip hike out to Shoshone Point. Wrap up the day with dinner and live music at the Bright Angel Lodge.
Day three - gain a different perspective by taking a smooth-water float trip on the river at the bottom of the canyon. This all-day, guided adventure will allow you to follow the same route as Major John Wesley Powell, an early explorer of the Grand Canyon. By the end of the day, you’ll be falling into bed but feel like you’ve made the most of your three-day stay.
Itinerary #3 – One week at the canyon
For those with lots of time, take advantage of the exciting options at the canyon and just beyond.
Day one, two and three - same as Itinerary #2.
Day four - take the Railroad Express on a half-day tour that starts at the Grand Canyon. You’ll step back in history and ride in a vintage train, traveling between Williams, Arizona and the Grand Canyon. The experience comes complete with strolling musicians, cowboys and a gunfight! End the day by going to Yavapai Point on the South Rim to take in the sunset.
Day five - check out of your lodge, then drive over to Las Vegas to catch a helicopter tour for yet another unique perspective of the canyon. I especially like the Grand Canyon Helicopter Ranch Adventure. You’ll fly over the canyon, land in the historic Grand Canyon West Ranch and travel by horse-drawn wagon to the Ranch House for an authentic western-style meal, “gun fight”, campfire songs and more. You’ll end the tour with a flight down the Vegas strip – and be exhausted from such an exciting day!
Day six – get picked up at your hotel for a Hoover Dam tour and float trip. You’ll start by touring the base of the dam and eventually transition to the water, where a boat will provide close up views of the dam and power plant. Besides the fascinating views of Lake Mead and the Colorado River, you’ll see the visitors center, outdoor artwork and much more – all while being guided by the experts.
Day seven – enjoy a little rest and relaxation, maybe taking in the spa at your Las Vegas hotel. After the past six days of adventure, you’ve certainly earned it!
One of my friends and Facebook fans, Doug Hodgson, happily shared photos from his trip to the Grand Canyon – please enjoy taking a look at the fun times he had!
