Apart from the spectacular views, the Grand Canyon houses some of the best hikes and other recreational activities for people to enjoy. Its vastness and grandeur is a global knowledge but what makes it more special is its proximity to tourist cities like Las Vegas and Arizona.
Places to visit at the Grand Canyon
Mather Point
Mather Point in the South Rim offers breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset. The location is convenient for tourists and isn’t isolated, making it safe. This point is one of the first places a tourist sees, owing to its proximity to the visitor center. Visit their website for more details.
Havasu Falls
Havasu Falls should be visited only if you plan on staying overnight because the hike to this place is exhausting. It is a desert oasis with water gushing and filling your soul with pure bliss and peace. For campground reservations, visit this link.
Eagle point
Eagle point point is the one to experience authentic Native American culture. It is on the Hualapai land and so it requires special permits. General admission tickets start at $49 (Skywalk not inclusive). You can roam around the area, soaking in the traditional vibe and buying souvenirs from their gift shop. You also have a chance to get clicked with Hualapai tribe members. You can visit this site for more details.
Horseshoe bend and Antelope Canyon
Both, Horseshoe bend and Antelope Canyon are picture-worthy locations are not located in the Grand Canyon National Park but are at an approachable distance and a must-watch. Constant soil erosion has made the Antelope Canyon the beauty it is today. Both these sites offer Insta-worthy pictures, with the best clicks in the sunlight when the orange color livens up the place. You can visit their official websites for further details and touring options.
Desert View Drive and Watchtower
This watchtower is on the eastern side of the South Rim. There is no entry fee. The top of this tower offers some of the best views of the Grand Canyon, stretching as far as 100 miles. It is a national historic landmark. There is no provision for shuttle services for this location, and the drive here is absolutely worth it. Many scenic landscapes outline the drive and picnic spots for you to relax.
For more information about the desert drive and watchtower, click here.
Phantom Ranch
Phantom Ranch is accessible only by hiking, mules, or rafting along the Colorado River. Dormitories and cabins, along with meals, can be found in this rusty, aesthetic, and cozy place. The reservations, however, need to be made 15 months before desired stay month between the 1st and 25th if you want to have a great experience and not look for last-minute bookings as the place consists of only 92 bunk beds, so it is a tough fight!
Tuweep
Tuweep is nestled deep in the canyon and has no network, water, or food facility. It offers the best wilderness experience, however, underconfident drivers should refrain from visiting the area. You need backcountry permits for staying at the campgrounds here. One should ensure sufficient food, gas, and water supplies as this area is secluded and offers none. There are two trails in this area: Saddle horse loop trail and Tuckup trail hikes. One important thing to remember is that you need to obtain special permits for photography of the place. For the latest updates, follow this website.
Things to do in Grand Canyon that you should not miss
Bright Angel Trail
The Bright Angel trail trail is almost 7 miles long one-way and is exhausting for hiking to and fro the same day. It is better to stay overnight, so you get adequate time to rest and even experience the beautiful sunrise the next day. This trail is one of the most popular trailheads in the area. For camping, you should have a backcountry permit to avoid any last-minute confrontation with the park rangers. Information regarding permits can be found here. For information related to the Bright Angel trail, visit the official website of National Park Services.
North Kaibab Trail
The North Kaibab trail is a 14-mile (one-way) trail in the North Rim. This trail is not for new hikers as there are some steep points. The new hikers should preferably stay at the South rim. This place offers solitude and peace to a restless mind. The views are described as nothing short of amazing, with spots like Ribbon falls going beyond expectations.
The Trans canyon shuttle service runs from the North and the South Rim once each day. There are a few campgrounds like Cottonwood and Bright Angel that you can explore if you want to stay. More about this trail can be found here.
Skywalk and Zip Lining at Hualapai land
The Skywalk has been a controversial addition to the place, with some blaming it for ruining the natural aesthetic of the place. Its location and construction draw in several tourists every year. It is located 4000 feet above the ground and is made of glass. The sensitive construction makes many people fear the structure. The place offers a remarkable view of the canyon. Many tour packages involve the walk here. Cameras are not allowed owing to the glass structure.
To enter the Hualapai land, you need a special permit starting from $59. For more information about Skywalk and zip lining packages, click here.
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River rafting in the Colorado river
Colorado River Rafting is an exhilarating experience and in the mighty Rockies is something every adventure lover should do once. Many groups can be referred to when you want to go rafting, depending on your experience level. Some groups offer the best guides, namely Wilderness River Adventures, Western River Expeditions, Hoover Dam Rafting Adventure, and many more.
Helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon
Helicopter tours of the canyon are one activity that will excite the adventurer inside you and give you the thrill of a lifetime. Apart from the viewing experience, a helicopter ride also offers expert narration from the pilots about the Grand Canyon, improving your knowledge base and appreciating its beauty more. You can choose the company for booking helicopter tours. The top 3 companies that offer some of the popular canyon tours are Maverick helicopters, Grand Canyon helicopters, and Papillon Grand Canyon helicopters.
Hermit Road drive
Hopi Point, Pima Point, Colorado River, Mohave Point, and Maricopa Point are the initial few points on the Hermit Road driving route. The route has many spots like these, offering a paradise for a nature lover. You can find other details about the route here.
Grand Canyon Train Ride
The Grand Canyon Train ride has an interesting history and is used today for transportation from Williams to South Rim Grand Canyon Depot. The journey is almost 2 hours 45 minutes long. Ticket prices start from $67 per person and vary according to the class you book. The scenic beauty present in the route is something extraordinary. Follow the website to know more.
Final Thoughts
As seen above, the place brims with tourist spots and recreational activities that one can explore, depending on how much time they have. The Grand Canyon also has some of the best hotels to cater to the tourists’ demands, flocking to the place every year. So, don’t overthink your trip and pack up your bags.
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