Top Five Grand Canyon (AZ) Arizona Adventures

The Grand Canyon is the perfect setting for your adventure vacation. With its magnificent rock formations, glorious sunsets, forested area, all set above the beautiful Colorado River, you can take your pick of a number of exciting actvities to make your vacation memorable.

If you like to hike, the Grand Canyon is for you. With trails that range from easy to grueling, you can see the Canyon from various points and a number of photographic angles. Try South Kaibab Trail at the North Rim for beautiful views and challenging activity. You can also explore Bright Angel Trail on the South Rim for extended vistas and moderate activity. These trails and more are located in the Grand Canyon National Park. The Park Service strongly discourages attempting to hike from the rim to the river and back in one day. Trails may be icy in winter. Typically guides are not needed for easier trails.

There's nothing like seeing the Grand Canyon from the air, and you can book air tours from Las Vegas, Flagstaff or from the Grand Canyon National Park Airport just outside the National Park entrance. An airplane flight will allow you to make the most of your time, with unique opportunities for photography. If you prefer a helicopter tour, you can dip below the rims of the Canyon to better see the rock formations and the Canyon walls. You can even land at the floor of the Grand Canyon for a picnic lunch, or land at Phantom Ranch's heliport and stay the night. Phantom Ranch is the Grand Canyon National Park's only lodging facility deep within the Canyon. Tours companies are based in Flagstaff, Phoenix, and Sedona. Flights tours can also be booked out of Las Vegas, NV.

A rafting trip on the Colorado River at the foot of the Grand Canyon is yet another experience you shouldn't miss. Tame or wild, there's a trip for every family member. Be aware that whitewater trips require children to be 8 years old. Some smooth water trips take children as young as 4 years. Rafting tours operate from the West Rim area of the Grand Canyon, and from Flagstaff and Sedona. Book early as some trips are popular and are filled quickly. Be advised that local weather conditions may affect your trip.

To take a page from the Brady Bunch, guided mule rides can be taken to the Canyon floor. Mules are selected for strength and endurance. You must be at least 4 feet 7 inches, under 200 pounds, not pregnant, and not afraid of heights. You must also be able to carefully follow your guide's instructions. Mule rides have been running through the Grand Canyon for a hundred years. Be a part of history with this unique touring experience.

You may also take an adventure in an off-road vehicle. You will Jeep down to the bottom, explore the Grand Canyon Caverns, and have a picnic lunch. Then, return in comfortable motorcoach to your hotel.

Additional information about specific activities can be found at www.FreeGrandCanyonGuide.com