A Guide To The Grand Canyon

One of the most awe-inspiring ways to experience the Grand Canyon is from the Colorado River. There are a variety of tours that will take you on a guided river rafting excursion. Find everything from one-day trips to multi-day adventures. Most rafting trips start in Paige, Arizona, with one day trips traveling on the smoother waters.

Experience spectacular views of the West Rim from the Grand Canyon Skywalk. This glass bridge juts out near Guano Point and provides thrilling views of the canyon floor from over 4,000 ft. (1.2 km) in the air! There is an extra admission fee to see the Skywalk but it’s well worth the experience. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed on the Skywalk but there is a professional photographer who will take a keepsake picture of you for a fee.

Enjoy a stunning train ride on the Grand Canyon Railway. Originally built in 1901, this historical train has been lovingly restored to give you a taste of the Old West. Starting in Williams, Arizona and ending at the South Rim, the Grand Canyon Railway passes through high-plains deserts, Ponderosa pine groves and more. Panoramic, domed ceilings offer amazing views while live performers make it a memorable experience. Enjoy cowboy music, beverages and even an entertaining reenactment of Wild West train robbers.

Located at the South Rim, the Grand Canyon Village is the most popular entryway into the national park. It’s home to Yavapai Point, one of the most breathtaking places to view the Grand Canyon, as well as a variety of gift shops, restaurants and lodging. Be sure to check out the Hopi House for authentic Native American souvenirs and crafts. Or, stop by the Grand Canyon Railway Depot to pick up tickets for the scenic railway.

Less visited than the other parts of the Grand Canyon, the North Rim is a picturesque destination accessible from both Las Vegas and Sedona and features a variety of activities including hiking, helicopter tours and open-air Hummer tours at sunset. Popular lookout spots include Point Imperial, Cape Royal and Bright Angel Point.

Seeing this stunning waterfall is definitely a bucket list-worthy experience. Just be sure to do the appropriate planning as there are a number of restrictions. Located on a Havasupai reservation, Havasu Falls requires a permit to visit. These permits are limited and in high demand, so it’s important to plan your trip well in advance. It is a 10-mile hike from the rim to the falls, so all visitors are asked to stay at least once night when they reach the canyon floor. There is a scenic campground, as a well as a lodge about two miles away from the falls.