Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most spectacular places to visit in the United States. You can spend many days exploring some of the most impressive natural beauty in the world. It’s best, however, if you have a plan before you visit so you don’t miss any of the best spots. Here are 10 things you shouldn’t miss on your trip.
1. Grand Canyon Visitor Center
This is a good place to start out on your visit to Grand Canyon National Park, as it will give you an overview of what you can find. There are both outdoor and indoor exhibits, including a 3D relief map that has videos that feature many areas of the Grand Canyon.
You can watch the film, Grand Canyon: A Journey of Wonder that will introduce you to many of the park’s attractions. The Visitor Center is located on the South Rim by Mather Point.
2. Mule Trips
There’s no better way to see the Grand Canyon than riding on a mule. This can give you the feeling of being a pioneer from another era. There are both South Rim and North Rim mule trips. South Rim trips, which are year round, are more popular and you should book well in advance. North Rim mule trips are only available from mid-May to October and can be arranged on a daily basis.
3. River Trips
You can experience Grand Canyon National Park along the Diamond Creek or Colorado rivers. There are trips of different lengths, from one day to 25 days. Permits are necessary for river trips. You can find professionally guided trips or self-guided ones.
4. Kolb Studio
Kolb Studio is a studio located on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. It was the home of the Kolb brothers, who were famous photographers and filmmakers around 100 years ago. Today it is a gallery that showcases some of the photographs taken by these brothers. You will also find books, memorabilia and special events at the Kolb Studio throughout the year.
5. Grand Canyon Railway
This is a chance to ride aboard an old fashioned railway car and see some of the breathtaking scenery while hearing fascinating stories and facts about the area. These trips are taken in restored railway cars and cover 130 miles from Williams to the South Rim. This is something you shouldn’t miss if you are visiting Grand Canyon National Park.
6. Helicopter Tours
If you really want to experience the Grand Canyon in a spectacular manner, you should see it from the vantage point of a helicopter. You can find various helicopter tours that will allow you to glimpse the Grand Canyon in all its glory.
7. Desert View Drive
This is a scenic road that is near the park’s east entrance. It has some great views, along with picnic areas. What’s nice about this road is that it’s less crowded than areas of the park near the south entrance. The best views can be found at the Desert View Watchtower.
8. Tusayan Ruins and Museum
This is the site of a Pueblo village from almost a thousand years ago. The ruins and museum are located along the Desert View. There are exhibits showing artifacts used by the tribes who lived in this area, as well as a bookstore. Admission to the museum is free, and you can take self-guided tours around the ruins.
9. Camper Village
This is the place to go if you want to camp out in Grand Canyon National Park. You can camp out here with a tent, RV or motor home. This South Rim campground is open throughout the year, and gives you a chance to spend some quality time in the park. Camper Village has many amenities, such as restrooms, showers and coin operated laundry.
10.Yavapai Museum of Geology
This museum will fascinate anyone who is interested in geology. The Grand Canyon region has some of the most interested geological formations in the world, and the Yavapai Museum gives you some insights into this topic. Aside from its many educational exhibits and bookstore, the museum is located in a very scenic spot that gives you some incredible views of the canyon.
