HomeTravel & LeisureTravel › 10 Must-See Adventures at the Grand Canyon
 
 
 

One of The Seven Wonders of the World isn't just one to sit and admire a short view of - it's meant to explore. We couldn't resist but to show off the most beautiful aspect of our Grand Canyon State, the Grand Canyon itself. Here are 10 adventures that you must partake in while you explore the beauty of Northern Arizona.

1. Skywalk

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*Photo courtesy of RoadTrippers.com 

Wander out onto a glass walkway 4,000 feet above the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Located in the Grand Canyon West area, the horseshoe shaped bridge reaches about 70-feet out from the canyon rim and offers views from under your feet; unlike anywhere else in the Canyon. 

2. River Trips

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*Photo courtesy of Oars.com 

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, then hop into a raft and travel down the Colorado River. For a calmer trip, choose a smooth water trip, and for an intense ride brave the white waters. Guided tours are available or venture out on your own. Permits are sometimes required so check before you go. The length of trips can range from a half day to 25 days for more advanced rafters.

 

3. Mule Trips

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*Photo courtesy of Intransit.Blogs.Nytimes.com 

Saddle up through the North or the South rim and enjoy fun-filled stops of educational information along the way. Whether it’s a day trip or an overnight ride that you desire, mule trip reservations on the south rim can fill up fast and should be booked up to 13-months in advance. While North Rim trips don’t go to the river, their availability is a lot more open as day of trips are quick to come by.

4. Hermit Road

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For a wonderfully scenic route, travel on Hermit Road which follows the rim of the canyon for 7-miles. With options to travel by foot, bicycle, shuttle bus, commercial bus, or private vehicles (only winter months), the road is built for anyone. Nine different viewpoints along the road offer different scenic views and photo ops. 

5. Havasu Falls

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*Photo courtesy of AlanJPhoto.Blogspot.com

Touted as one of America’s best waterfalls, Havasu Falls lays tucked back in the Havasupai Indian Reservation. With Havasupai meaning people of the blue-green waters, it’s easy to imagine what this gem of a spot looks like. Not many visitors are aware of this attraction, while it is technically just outside the Grand Canyon National Park boundaries. While the falls are only accessible by trail, the hike is well worth the views of cascading turquoise walls amongst surrounding glowing red rocks. Camp at the bottom or take a dip in the whirlpools. Either way you won’t be disappointed.

6. Phantom Ranch

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*Photo courtesy of Flickr.com

For a true outdoor experience, choose Phantom Ranch as your lodging choice. Only accessed by foot or mule, the ranch is the lowest lodging possible at the canyon. Sitting on the north side of the Colorado River, hikers or riders can choose between dormitory spaces or cabins depending on the size of their group. Extremely limited space is available, but the seclusion at the bottom of the canyon is not something to be missed.

7. Lipan Point

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*Photo courtesy of Arizona-Leisure.com

Known for it’s awesome sunset views, Lipan Point is often regarded as one of the best spots for a breathtaking view. Sitting on the South Rim of the canyon, visitors can spot the Colorado River slicing through the rocks down below. For insane panoramic views, Lipan Point is where you’ll want to be, and probably where you’ll want to stay.

8. Point Imperial

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*Photo courtesy of JasonHines.net

If height is what you’re after, travel up to Point Imperial, the highest point on the North Rim. Sitting on the less popular side of the canyon, the North Rim provides different views from the South Rim. With fewer crowds, the experience is something to note. At 8,803 feet, Point Imperial lies where the Marble Canyon walls open up to a wider view with a palette of colors. Be careful when planning on visiting the North Rim though; it’s closed in the winter and lodging is only available mid May through mid October. And don’t expect a quick drive if you’re staying on at the South Rim. The drive around takes about five hours.

9. Pink Jeep Tours

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*Photo courtesy of PinkJeepToursGrandCanyon.com

For a different tour experience, hop into a bright pink open-air Jeep provided by Pink Jeep Tours Grand Canyon. Enjoy the ease of driving the canyon without the stress of actually driving. With many different departure times and tour lengths, the jeeps offer up a variety of different experiences. The tours also work great for families with young children!

10. Toroweap Overlook

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*Photo courtesy RoadTrippers.com

For a challenging yet rewarding experience and view, trek up to Toroweap Overlook to witness a 3,000-foot vertical drop above the Colorado River. There is absolutely no water, gas, food, lodging, or phone service, and the roadways to get there require some skills. If you make it, however, the area is remote and unlike anywhere else in the park.

--Suzanne Koch