The Grand Canyon

1. Raft the Grand Canyon – Conquer the Colorado! White-water rafting on the Colorado River is the ultimate Grand Canyon adventure. These multi-day rafting excursions offer breathtaking scenery, magnificent side hikes and adrenaline-pumping white-water rapids.

    

2. Helicopter Tours – Get a bird’s-eye view of the Grand Canyon with an exciting helicopter tour. On your narrated tour you’ll soar high above the Canyon rim for expansive views that range for hundreds of miles, then dip gently below the rim for a close-up look at rock formations that are millions of years old.

    

3. Hiking / Camping – Many say that to truly experience the Grand Canyon, you must traverse her challenging trails and sleep outside under her brilliant blanket of stars. The spectacular land formations, stunning scenic vistas and nature’s amazing colors are just three reasons to venture into the Grand Canyon’s rocky depths. As you descend through Ponderosa Pine forests and onto the desert Canyon floor, you’ll pass through an amazing geologic “time tunnel” that offers an unparalleled glimpse into the region’s past.

    

4. Mule Trips – If hiking isn’t your speed, venture into the Grand Canyon on the back of a sure-footed mule! Full-day and overnight mule rides are available, but reservations sell out quickly. Plan ahead and make your reservations at least six months in advance. The full-day trip lasts about seven hours and offers plenty of photo ops along the way. Guests on overnight mule trips will spend the night at the world-famous Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

    

5. Mountain Biking – Cruise through the park atop a mountain bike! Trails traverse gently rolling terrain as well as more challenging inclines and descents as they wind through aspen groves and Ponderosa Pine forests on the Grand Canyon rim.

    

6. Interpretative Programs / Nature Walks / Bird Watching – National Park Service Rangers at the Grand Canyon offer a variety of interpretive walks and programs for visitors to enjoy. Look inside your copy of The Guide, the official park newspaper obtained at the park entrance, for more information and program schedules.

    

7. Cross-Country Skiing / Snowshoeing - During the winter months, enjoy the scenic wonders of the Grand Canyon in complete solitude. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are not only great ways to exercise, they also provide a quiet setting in which to enjoy the Grand Canyon’s natural splendor. Ski rental companies are located in nearby communities so there’s no need to worry about bringing your own equipment.

    

8. Grand Canyon Railway – Board The Train and you’ll be transported back in time to the early 1900s! Strolling musicians, cowboy characters and even some ornery train robbers set the scene for a day of family fun. The Grand Canyon Railway excursion from Williams to the South Rim passes through miles of pristine forest land. All aboard!

    

9. Guided Bus Tours – Leave the driving to the professionals on a guided motorcoach tour of the Grand Canyon. As you sit back, relax and enjoy the view, an experienced guide will share the history of the Grand Canyon. Your motorcoach will stop at numerous scenic viewpoints along the way, so make sure your camera is fully loaded with film or a fresh memory card!

    

10. Auto Touring – Exploring the park by car allows you to travel at your own pace and enjoy fabulous views of the Grand Canyon along the way. Please note that some roads are closed to private vehicles during much of the year, however the park service runs free shuttle buses along these routes.