Grand Canyon National Park is one of America’s most treasured national parks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. When we think of the Grand Canyon, most often we think about the iconic view from Mather Point on the South Rim, like the one pictured above. While catching a glimpse of that beautiful view is a must-do, there are some other very unique experiences in and around the park that you should be sure to take advantage of when planning a trip to the Grand Canyon!
#1: Admire the Canyon from all angles
A walk along the “Trail of Time” will give you an excellent vantage point looking down into the canyon from the top of the South Rim, but you can also experience the beauty of the canyon from the sky by taking a helicopter and/or plane tour. Ever wonder what the Grand Canyon might look like from the bottom? Take a guided Mule ride down into the canyon and learn about the geologic formations, human history and fire ecology.
Tip: Be sure to plan your mule ride in advance as bookings open up 15 months in advance!
#2: Arrive by Train
Visitor parking in the Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim can be very busy and hard to find during peak travel times in the spring and summer. So why not skip the parking hassle and take the train instead? The Grand Canyon Railway has been running since 1901 and offers a unique experience to ride aboard a restored train on a 2.5-hour journey up to the Grand Canyon. While you are not able to see the canyon from the train itself, you can watch the terrain change as it climbs up to the south rim. Experience the way of the west on the way to the canyon, travel back in time with musicians and attendants that share historical and regional knowledge. Beware you may even find yourself part of an old-fashioned train robbery (don’t worry they are just part of the old west entertainment).
Tip: Be sure to get to the train depot a half-hour early to watch a cowboy shootout.
#3: Stay in the Grand Canyon Village
After your train ride up to the Grand Canyon Village consider staying for a night or two in one of the historic lodges located right on the South Rim. There are 5 lodges to choose from, some of which have rooms with views of the canyon. This will allow you to take advantage of the shuttle service to visit more of the south rim down hermit’s rest road, take a mule ride, or rent bikes to explore the park.
Tip: Be sure to reach out to your Kingdom Destinations travel advisor well in advance as reservations open 13 months in advance.
#4: Visit Page Arizona to view Horseshoe Bend & Antelope Canyons
You likely have seen pictures of Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyons pop up in your Instagram feed or as a screen saver on your computer. While neither of these places is technically part of the Grand Canyon, you should definitely consider adding them to your itinerary since they are only about 2.5 hours from the Grand Canyon Village.
Tip: Antelope Canyons is located in a Navajo Nation National Park and therefore you must book an official tour with a Navajo guide to visit these unique canyons.
#5: Discover the beauty of the Sedona Red Rocks
One way to get to the Grand Canyon is flying into Phoenix, Arizona, and renting a car to drive up to the Grand Canyon. Your drive will take you right through the heart of the red rocks on State Route 179 and 89 to Sedona. Stop along the way to take a quick hike and grab lunch in downtown Sedona with breathtaking views of the surrounding red rocks. Alternatively, consider staying overnight so your Kingdom Destinations agent can help you book an off-road jeep tour in the surrounding desert to see the red rocks up close.
Tip: If you are traveling in the summer remember it is best to schedule hikes for early in the morning or late in the afternoon, to avoid hiking in the hottest part of the day.
Is the Grand Canyon on your travel bucket list?
If so, reach out to your favorite Travel Advisor at Kingdom Destinations or email us at info@kingdomdestinations.com for assistance with planning your vacation to this exquisite National Park.