Recreational Activities at the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon, one mile deep and 277 miles long, offers spectacular sights and plenty of active pursuits. Whether you want to travel by foot, bike, or on the water of the Colorado River by raft, you'll find it here. Consider a mule ride, a unique activity that can't be found too many other places.

Mule Rides
Immerse yourself within the Canyon walls on a mule ride for a panoramic view of the Canyon and the Colorado River. Take a one day, seven-hour ride leaving from Plateau Point, an overnight ride that concludes with a stay at Phantom Ranch, or a one-hour ride along the north rim. Weight limits range from 200 and 220 lbs. Riders need to be at least 4 feet 7 inches tall, speak English. Pregnant riders not permitted.

Guided Hiking Adventures
While hiking on your own is a good way to see the Grand Canyon, taking a guided hiking adventure offers you an opportunity to learn more about this wondrous attraction. Embark on a ranger led hike from the north or south rims or book a hike with the Grand Canyon Field Institute for a more in-depth hike. Tour guides will take you on a hike up to five miles long on the Bright Angel Trail to see marine fossils, 1,600 plant species, and native animals. See various landmarks and hear the history of the National Park System. Bring your own lunch.

River Trips
Opt for a half-day or full-day white water or smooth water river trips which take you about 140 to 160 miles from the south rim. Two to five day noncommercial river trips are also available. Leaving from Diamond Creek, the trip is limited to 16 participants to take this 52-mile ride on smooth and white water past scenic colorful views. Choose to paddle yourself or rent a motorized raft. Permits are required and are available through weighted lotteries.

Bicycling
Bicycling throughout the Grand Canyon area is a great way to get exercise while seeing nature. At the south rim, you can ride on paved and unpaved areas or travel down the Greenway Trail. Stop at several different resting areas or at one of six overlooks. On the north rim, ride down any paved or unpaved path or journey on the entrance road. Just outside the park, highway 67 and highway 89 make nice rides. Bikes can be rented from private businesses in the area. Bike rental are not available in the park.

Fishing
Fish at the Grand Canyon to catch trout, carp, flannel-mouth sucker and speckled dace. According to Frommer's Travel Guide, the best places to fish are at the eastern end near Phantom Ranch and between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry. You'll get the most bites during the fall and winter. Depending on where you'd like to fish, you may need to hike to the location or reach it by raft. Many places, however, can be accessed from the shoreline. Rod and wader rentals are available.