For me, hiking is a great way to stay grounded during the hectic holiday season. Plus there’s the added benefit of strapping on those shoes and hitting the trails: working off a few extra calories and the stress. So in the sweet-filled and time-starved days ahead, take time to breathe the fresh air on a trail near you.
In Arizona, we are fortunate to have scores of trails, canyons, ridgelines and tree-covered pathways on which to wander. And of course, we have the granddaddy of them all: Grand Canyon National Park.
You have to see it to believe it. Up to 18 miles wide and one mile deep, this wonder of the world is aptly named. Whether you are a hiker, a climber or a photographer, there is so much to do in and around the canyon for visitors of all ages and abilities.
A rafting trip through the Grand Canyon still ranks as the all-time favorite vacation for my boys. Here are a few ideas to inspire your trip to an American treasure:
Raft the Colorado River: 277 river miles snake through this geologic wonder. Spend a day or several weeks exploring the canyon, floating deep within its storied walls. Hike the glorious side canyons. Revel in the thrilling adventure of North America’s ultimate river trip. You’ll have tales to last a lifetime. Discuss trip types—motorized rafts, dories, rowing—and age-appropriate departures with your outfitter. Contacts: O.A.R.S, http://www.oars.com/, tel. 800-346-6277; Hatch River Expeditions, http://www.hatchriverexpeditions.com/, tel. 800-856-8966.
Hike the Canyon: The South and West Rim trails are mostly paved and offer a stroller-friendly opportunity to view the astounding vistas. Begin at the South Rim Visitor Center. Offering some shade and water along the way, the Bright Angel Trail is the best place to start for great views of the inner canyon. Choose day hikes to the Three-Mile Resthouse (3 miles one way) or to Indian Garden (4.6 miles one way).
Spend the Night in the Canyon: Reserve a camp site at the Bright Angel campground (9.3 miles one way) or bunks at Phantom Ranch (9.8 miles one way) for an historic and unforgettable experience. Plan well in advance. Reservations for Phantom Ranch can be made only by mail, phone or fax. Tel. 888-29-PARKS, www.GrandCanyonLodges.com/phantom-ranch. For camping, visit http://www.recreation.gov/.
Sleep on the Rim: Inside the park, there are five lodging options on the South Rim. Choose from El Tovar, an historic and elegant hotel, to cabin and motel type accommodations. On the North Rim—which closes after the first heavy snowfall and reopens in the Spring—the only park option is the charming Grand Canyon Lodge. Extensive lodging also exists outside the park in nearby Tesayan, the gateway village. Reserve well in advance. Contact: tel. 303-297-2757, http://www.grandcanyonlodges.com/.
Ride a Mule: Try this traditional transportation style for viewing the Canyon’s panoramic vistas. Hop on for a short ride or trek to the bottom of the canyon for an overnight stay. Some weight, height and age restrictions apply. Contact: Xanterra Parks & Resorts, tel. 888-297-2757, http://www.grandcanyonlodges.com/.
For more about a visit to the Grand Canyon visit the National Park Service Web site: www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm.
