Blog — Scenic Airlines

Being Environmentally-Conscious at a Natural Monument

Alex Santanna — Fri, 16 Nov 2018 15:50:00 GMT

The Southwest region of the United States offers some of the most incredible feats of nature known to man. From raging rivers to deep-cut canyons to winding underground passageways carved within the earth, sights like these are simply found nowhere else on the planet. Undoubtedly the Grand Canyon is the most recognized and popular of the landmarks found in the Southwest. For millions of years, wind and water have carved this colossal fissure in the earth and continues to chip away at it to this day. Long after humans have left the planet, the Grand Canyon will continue to evolve and erode. Nature is taking its course, but what happens when humans are introduced? There are over 9,000 animals and insects and over 1,700 plants thriving within the Grand Canyon. At the same time, the Grand Canyon hosts upwards of 5 million visitors each year – how do we ensure that never-ending human contact has as little effect on the environment as possible?

Of course there are hired individuals tasked with monitoring park conditions, but unlike other tourist favorites like the Statue of Liberty or the Golden Gate Bridge, national parks and natural monuments can’t receive routine maintenance to keep up their appearance. The preservation of these natural wonders is the responsibility of not just rangers and park service employees, but of the park’s visitors as well.

So what should you do when you visit a place like the Grand Canyon?

Human interference is the greatest threat to any natural environment, but a conscientious visitor will leave no trace that they were there. This includes leaving trash behind as well as removing pieces of the environment. At the Grand Canyon (and other national parks) signage is posted throughout the park reminding tourists that they are strictly forbidden from removing any natural piece of the land. Even so much as picking a flower can result in a hefty fine. Only researchers within scientific communities are permitted to remove rocks, dirt, and plants – and that’s only after their proposals are approved by the National Park Service. Sure, sneaking a small stone into your pocket seems like a harmless and free souvenir, but if every of the canyon’s 5 million annual visitors removed a piece, eventually the surface would be significantly altered. Besides, the nearby shops offer a wide array of gorgeous handmade and natural gifts.

Like any other natural habitat, the Grand Canyon’s plant and animal population operate as a delicate food chain. It is extremely important that guests do not interact with the animals living within the park. Many of the local wildlife – particularly the squirrels and crows – are very familiar with humans entering their territory and know that we don’t pose an imminent threat. Many squirrels and birds will actually approach visitors and beg for food. When these animals get their food from outside sources, the ecosystem’s balance becomes increasingly disrupted. And don’t worry – despite its stark appearance, the Grand Canyon has plenty of food for its critters.

But what about the environmental effect of helicopters and airplanes at the canyon?

Scenic recognizes the immeasurable importance of preserving this incredible natural region and are dedicated to leaving as little impact as possible. We are committed to keeping our air tours as eco-friendly and quiet as possible, to preserve the tranquility of this magnificent landmark.

President Theodore Roosevelt was a life-long lover of the Grand Canyon and regularly urged the public to leave it in its pristine condition. He believed that there was nothing humans could do to improve upon this magnificent sight. In fact, he did not even agree with any buildings being built within the territory. While the canyon rim has since been modernized a bit with hotels, shops, and notably the Skywalk Bridge, the efforts to preserve the landscape and surrounding environment would have likely impressed Roosevelt today. Do your part when you visit the canyon to ensure that it looks just as beautiful for future generations.

Camping at the Grand Canyon

Alex Santanna — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 16:20:00 GMT

There’s no more intimate way to connect with nature than to spend a night within its earthly embrace. Camping, in other words. Whether you’re looking for an overnight excursion or an extended vacation, the Grand Canyon offers a variety of locations to pop up some tents or pull over an RV. Before you set off on your outdoor adventure, check out our complete guide to camping at the Grand Canyon. From planning and locations to permits and facilities, find out everything you need to know before packing up and hitting the road.

Start Your Camping Plan

Location

There are two primary areas to camp at the Grand Canyon: the North Rim and the South Rim. Both offer incredible camping and sightseeing opportunities, but differ in accessibility, availability, weather conditions, nature, and more. Find out more about what the North and South Rims have to offer campers travelling to the Grand Canyon.

South Rim

The South Rim, a colloquial term for what is technically the Grand Canyon National Park, offers camping year-round. The South Rim features some of the most famous views of the canyon and sees a good amount of tourist traffic. Because of its popularity, this area can be reached easily by automobile, train, and air travel. Due to the lower elevation of this region, the South Rim usually sees more mild temperatures for a longer period of time annually. The developed campgrounds here are also in much higher demand and require advanced reservations. Just steps from the canyon’s edge rests the historic Grand Canyon Village, featuring several hotels, restaurants, gift shops, and more.

Mather Campground

What to Know

Mather Campground, not far from the bustling Grand Canyon Village, is open year round to the public. Here visitors are allowed 2 cars, 6 guests, and 3 tents in their camping space. RVs are also permitted in the campground; however, RVs requiring hookups will find them at the nearby Trailer Village.

Permits

Camping at the Grand Canyon National Park does not require a permit; however, both campsites have different stipulations for obtaining a camping spot. Because of its close vicinity to Grand Canyon Village, Mather Point is the most popular option for Grand Canyon campers. It’s a good idea to make reservations if you’re planning to set up camp here. Reservations can even be made up to 6 months before your trip.

Reservations: 1-877-444-6777

Book Mather Campground Online

Safety

Mather Campground allows fires to be built only within designated grills. Additionally, campers are not allowed to gather their own firewood; instead wood can be bought at the general store not far away. Pets are allowed in Mather Campground but must be leashed and never left unattended. The campsite offers added accessible accommodations as well, and wheelchairs can be rented from Bright Angel Bicycles nearby if needed.

Amenities

Laundry facilities as well as showers are available inside Mather Campground and accept a small charge to use. If necessary, safe dog and cat boarding is available in the village nearby. The National Park also offers a complimentary shuttle service to assist visitors, including campers, to reach the canyon lookout points more easily. You can even rent bikes and children’s tricycles from Bright Angel Bicycles not far away.

Desert View Campground

What to Know

Approximately 25 miles from Grand Canyon Village is Desert View Campground, often much less busy than Mather Campground. This is a more exclusive area as it offers only 50 sites. It is also important to note that Desert View is closed from mid-October to mid-April for the winter. Additionally, this area does not offer RV hookups but can accommodate small RVs and trailers. Each individual site allows a group of up to 6 people and two tents, as well as two cars or one RV.

Permits

Desert View Campground does not accept reservations and instead is first-come/first-serve for campers – so be sure to arrive early in the morning if you plan to stay at Desert View. Pay stations are onsite to accept the small camping fee required to camp within Desert View. There is a one-week allowance for camping at this location.

Safety

Leashed pets are permitted at Desert View. Campfires are permitted in the provided grills at each site and campers are advised to follow fire safety instructions to maintain control of their campfires.

Amenities

All 50 campsites at Desert View include a picnic table as well as a grill for building fires. Within the campsite are two clean water spigots. Separate bathrooms are available at Desert View as well as accessible restrooms, but the nearest showers can be found in Mather Campground or within the Grand Canyon Village. A campground host is available onsite during the summer months to help campers, as well.

Trailer Village

What to Know

Located next to Mather Campground, Trailer Village is the Grand Canyon National Park’s only RV park. The area is paved and offers 84 parking spaces accomodating recreational vehicles up to 50 feet in length. The park is open year-round and just a short distance from the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, Grand Canyon Village, and the canyon itself. It is important to remember that quiet hours are from 10pm to 8am daily.

Permits

Trailer Village accepts reservations and also welcomes those without – though they will be limited to whichever parking spaces (if any) are still available.

Reservations: Toll-free (877) 404-4611

Same day reservations: (928) 638-3047

Trailer Village Online

Safety

Leashed pets are permitted at Desert View. While wood fires are prohibited, charcoal fires are permitted. Campers are advised to follow fire safety instructions to maintain control of their campfires.

Amenities

Trailer Village offers electrical hookups, cable television hookups, and sewage and water hookups. Local water conservation efforts forbid visitors in Trailer Village to wash their vehicles during their stay. A shuttle stop at the entrance to the park will transports visitors to various destinations throughout the Grand Canyon National Park.

North Rim

The Grand Canyon’s North Rim is the rugged alternative to the South Rim. Here the climate reaches much colder temperatures and receives enough snowfall to temporarily close the region from mid-October to mid-May annually. The North Rim Campground allows a maximum of 6 people and 3 tents as well as 2 cars at each site. Groups of up to 25 are also able to camp together at the North Rim with up to 3 vehicles. There are no RV hookups at the North Rim but there is a nearby dump station available to RV users.

Permits

Reservations: 1-877-444-6777

Book North Rim Camping Online

Guests with Golden Age passport or Access passport will receive half-price admission to camp at the North Rim.

Safety

Pets are permitted at the North Rim Campground, but must remain leashed and monitored at all times. There are no dog boarding options at the North Rim. Fires may be built in the grills within the campsite using wood and charcoal only. Campers are not permitted to collect wood from the North Rim wild; Instead, wood may be bought at the nearby general store.

Amenities

Located at the North Rim Campground is a water refill station, restrooms (including handicap accessible), as well as laundry machines accepting coins for use.

Nearby Activities

It’s the whole reason you’re travelling here in the first place: the Grand Canyon. Could any tourist attraction ever compare? The South Rim offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities along the paved walkways at the canyon’s edge, but there are other ways to discover the most splendid views of these world-famous stone walls. Take to the skies on a South Rim airplane tour or helicopter tour to capture sights of the canyon walls, the Colorado River, and the Kaibab National Forest!

Your Must-See Guide to the Grand Canyon Pt 4

Alex Santanna — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 16:33:00 GMT

Here we are, part 4 of our Must-See Guide! Hopefully you’ve read our guides to the Grand Canyon National Park, the Grand Canyon West, and the Grand Canyon North. If not, make sure you read up on those gorgeous locations, as well. The desert Southwest of the United States contains some of the most striking and unusual scenery and landforms in the world – and Page, Arizona is no exception. The fourth and final installation of our Must-See Guide will introduce you to this quaint town as well as the incredible and world-famous sights found here.

Page, Arizona

Let’s be technical here: the city of Page, Arizona does not actually encompass the Grand Canyon itself. The canyon ends at Colorado river mile 227 at Lee’s Ferry, a historic site that was once the only efficient way to cross the rushing Colorado. Page, Arizona lies just beyond Lee’s Ferry. Not far beyond the canyon’s end is Page: a cozy town nestled into the rugged Southwestern landscape. While this town began as simply a temporary housing area for workers hired to construct the Glen Canyon Dam, it’s since grown into a tight-knit community bordering the Navajo Nation. You can find some of the most impressive feats of nature in the Page Desert, and this section of our Must-See Guide will explain how to experience each one of them.

Tower Butte

Standing over 5,000 above sea level, Tower Butte commands attention from its isolated spot in the desert. The butte is just a short distance from the Page Municipal Airport, which offers daily helicopter flights landing on its flat surface. Helicopter landing is the only way to reach the top of Tower Butte, and is an endeavor worth looking into. The 360-degree view from here includes sights of Lake Powell’s remarkable shoreline and panoramic desert scenery.

Rainbow Bridge

Rainbow Bridge is a familiar sight to many nature and photography enthusiasts as well as the casual internet browser. It seems impossible that this massive stone arch was naturally formed, but it’s true. Millions of years of erosion by the Colorado River and desert winds have turned this chunk of rock into a delicate half-ring of striped orange stone. Eventually the continued erosion will cause this gorgeous rock formation to collapse, but fortunately it can be still be visited either via hiking (with a permit) or on an airplane tour over the Glen Canyon area.

Upper Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon may likely be one of the most famous natural locations in the world. However, many adventure-seekers may not realize that Antelope Canyon actually encompasses two different locations. Upper Antelope Canyon begins as a thin crevice within a massive stone wall. Upon entering this inconspicuous corridor, the interior of Upper Antelope opens up into several vast natural stone “rooms”. Within these spacious chambers visitors can capture amazing group photos surrounded by the rippling sandstone walls or even catch a glimpse of the brilliant light shafts if they’re lucky.

Lower Antelope Canyon

The second region of Antelope is the aptly-named Lower Canyon. From the surface, Lower Antelope Canyon appears to be just a thin crack within the hardened desert earth. After descending a small staircase, you’ll enter a winding stone passageway between undulating sandstone walls. Incredible formations and shapes, as well as sand waterfalls, await within this hidden canyon. In fact, the most expensive photograph ever sold was taken right here in Lower Antelope Canyon. Your guide can help you recreate this shot and point out many more photo opportunities. A Navajo guide from the nearby reservation will lead you through the incredible depths of this famous canyon and provide a wealth of detail about Antelope’s history and importance to the Navajo people.

Your Must-See Guide to the Grand Canyon Pt 3

Alex Santanna — Sat, 21 Jul 2018 16:40:00 GMT

If you’re reading this blog, you’ve more than likely already learned about the must-see attractions at the Grand Canyon National Park and the Grand Canyon West. If you haven’t, take a look! There are so many sights to see, places to visit, and activities to experience throughout the Grand Canyon that it may seem impossible to get everything done. Our Must-See Guide is here to make your vacation planning as stress-free and convenient as possible. This part of the guide will help you manage a trip to the northern region of the Grand Canyon. Read on!

Grand Canyon North

The North Canyon lies between the western and southern rims at a significantly higher elevation. Here the canyon landscape is much more rugged and undeveloped, blanketed with dense forestry and home to a rich variety of animal species. Here the weather can reach colder temperatures and snow is not uncommon in the winter months. Grand Canyon visitors in search of an outdoor adventure will find the North Canyon to be the perfect destination.

Bar 10 Ranch

Bar 10 Ranch is a Western-style lodge nestled within northern wilderness near the Grand Canyon. The cozy accommodation boasts a hospitable staff capable of providing the ultimate Western experience. Plenty of outdoor activities are available to enjoy at Bar 10 – including horseback riding, hiking, volleyball, ping pong, skeet shooting, and even ATV tours. Probably the most exciting offerings at the ranch are the overnight accommodations. Aside from the dormitory-style rooms, Bar 10 also offers converted covered wagons available to spend the night outdoors. In fact, on mild nights many guests prefer to use sleeping bags on the deck so they can fall asleep under the stars.

Whitmore Canyon

Whitmore Canyon is a secluded region in the canyon lands offering amazing views of the Colorado River and surrounding stone walls. The easiest way to reach Whitmore Canyon is on board an ATV or off-roading vehicle!

Lake Mead Recreation Area

This nationally-protected recreation area boasts an incredible 1.5 million acres, offering a huge variety of scenery and outdoor activities. From the glimmering waters of Lake Mead to the ancient southwest mountains, there are endless possibilities for adventure. From hiking to boating, horsebacking riding, and even camping, the Lake Mead Recreation Area has something for every family.

Your Must-See Guide to the Grand Canyon Pt 2

Alex Santanna — Fri, 13 Jul 2018 09:54:00 GMT

If you’re coming from Part 1 of our Must-See Guide to the Grand Canyon, then you’ve already learned that the Grand Canyon scenery can differ greatly from region to region. Different climates, weather conditions, and elevation have altered the plant and animal life and even the canyon’s erosion patterns at various areas of the park. This segment of the Must-See Guide offers a more detailed description of the Grand Canyon West, the rugged cowboy alternative to the Grand Canyon South Rim.

Grand Canyon West

Compared to the South Rim, the Grand Canyon West is a considerable distance closer to Las Vegas – about a 2-hour drive or about a half-hour flight. Here the climate is often warmer than the South Rim and can reach considerably high temperatures in the summertime – especially on the canyon floor. You can browse a variety of West Rim tours flying out of Las Vegas daily here. Then, check out our recommendations for the must-see locations throughout the Grand Canyon West.

Eagle Point

Emerging from the jagged canyon rock face is a massive figure resembling an eagle taking flight. This neatly-sculpted form was actually eroded naturally over millions upon millions of years by the Colorado River and desert winds. Visitors to the West Rim can reach Eagle Point onboard the complimentary shuttle service operating throughout the area. See this incredible formation from the canyon’s edge or better yet – from atop the Skywalk Bridge.

Grand Canyon Skywalk

Opened in 2007, the Skywalk Bridge gives Grand Canyon sightseers a viewing opportunity like any other. This incredible feat of architecture features a solid glass-bottomed bridge that allows guests to literally walk over the Grand Canyon floor. From the Skywalk, you can see panoramic views of the canyon walls across the gorge including perfect views of Eagle Point across the canyon. Inside the Skywalk building is an art and souvenir shop as well as the fine dining restaurant Sa’ Nyu Wa, offering Asian-infused Native American cuisine.

Guano Point

Guano Point is a unique stretch of land extending into the middle of the canyon. This area once served a short-lived purpose as a mine, the ruins of which still stand at the cliff’s edge. Venture out to the end of Guano Point and climb the small summit for incredible sights 360-degree sights of the canyon and Colorado River. Guano Point can be reached via a short drive aboard the complimentary shuttle service available at the West Rim.

Colorado River

The Colorado River neatly cuts the canyon in half – in fact, it is responsible for eroding the entire thing! After millions upon millions of years, the endless flow of water and wind carved these rock walls down to even a mile deep in some places. The West Rim offers the unique opportunity for visitors to see the Colorado River from the canyon floor via a short helicopter flight. You can also experience the Colorado River aboard a pontoon boat or on an exhilarating whitewater rafting tour.

Your Must-See Guide to the Grand Canyon

Alex Santanna — Thu, 05 Jul 2018 10:02:00 GMT

Most people around the world carry a distinct mental image of the Grand Canyon, the image seen on TV, in movies, magazines, and more. But the Grand Canyon isn’t just a big hole in the ground – it actually stretches an incredible 277 miles across Arizona’s changing landscape. From desert hills to ancient volcanoes to lush pines in the Kaibab National Forest, there are many regions offering different canyon perspectives and surrounding nature.

If you’re planning your first trip to the Grand Canyon, you may feel overwhelmed at the number of sights and activities available and may be concerned about “missing out” on some aspects by travelling to a certain region over another. The bottom line is this: you can’t see the entire Grand Canyon in a day. However, no matter how much time you have or which region you choose to visit, life-changing sightseeing opportunities await you.

So whether you’re travelling to the Grand Canyon National Park, the West Rim, North Canyon, or even beyond to Page and Lake Powell, our must-see list will help you plan your sightseeing journey each step of the way.

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon National Park, despite common misconception, does not cover the entire Grand Canyon. About a 4-hour drive or 2-hour flight from Las Vegas, the national park is located in the southern region of the canyon, more popularly known as the South Rim. This region is the most developed – and subsequently the most visited and consistently busy. The weather here tends to be mild but winter visitors will often find a gorgeous sprinkling of snow with the massive canyon gorges.

Grand Canyon Village

If you wander down the paved walkway of the South Rim, you’ll see the magnificent Grand Canyon to one side and to the other you’ll find the Grand Canyon Village. Grand Canyon Village is a small and thriving district nestled along the edge of the canyon. Here you’ll find a plethora of historic buildings – several of which were designed by early 1900s-architect Mary Colter. From quaint gift shops and legendary art galleries to restaurants and bars, as well as some educational exhibits, the Grand Canyon Village is the perfect place to rest during a long day of sightseeing.

There are several hotels located within the Grand Canyon Village, each offering a different theme through their decor and architecture. Several of these hotels even offer rooms with canyon views. More information about Grand Canyon National Park hotels is available in our hotel and lodging post here.

Desert View Watchtower

This 70-ft-tall cylindrical structure was designed nearly 90 years ago by renowned American architect Mary Colter. Inspired by the earthy constructions of Native Americans, Colter’s work very frequently incorporated their styles and materials to create modern buildings in the early to mid-1900s. Desert View Watchtower even includes wall decor and a ceiling mural inspired by Native American artwork. Climb to the top and discover 360-degree views of the South Rim from the windows of this pueblo-inspired building.

Mather Point

This is the viewpoint nearest the national park entrance, making it typically the first stop for sightseers upon arrival. The large railed-off viewing area allows visitors to stand right at the edge of the rim and take in fantastic sights of the striped canyon walls. This is a great area to start your sightseeing because the Rim Trail leads both left and right of Mather Point across the canyon’s edge.

Yavapai Point

Not far from Mather Point heading westward is Yavapai point, offering an incredible view of the canyon walls across the entire horizon and down to the Colorado River below. Also at Yavapai is an observatory featuring a geology museum. You can learn about the many varieties of stone that layered atop one another for millions of years to form the striped canyon walls you see right from the observatory windows.

Lodging at the Grand Canyon National Park

Alex Santanna — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 10:06:00 GMT

The Grand Canyon National Park, referred to colloquially as the South Rim, is by far the most developed region of the Grand Canyon. The South Rim offers so many different opportunities for sightseeing, exploring, even shopping and nearby entertainment that is extremely difficult to experience it all in just a day. Because of this, the park has become an increasingly popular vacation destination for tourists around the world. Last year alone, the Grand Canyon National Park hosted over 6 million visitors. But fear not prospective canyon vacationers: the park offers a wealth of overnight accommodations ranging from rugged campsites to upscale hotel lodging and everything in-between. The historic Grand Canyon Village – located right along the canyon rim – contains many legendary hotels as well as shops and restaurants. The huge selection of Grand Canyon hotels can be absolutely daunting when trying to plan that perfect trip, be it a family summer vacation or a romantic couples’ getaway. Narrow down your search with this list of hotels located in the village and in the surrounding area.

For those interested in camping/RV accommodations, check out our Ultimate Camping Guide

Grand Canyon Railway Hotel

Built in 1901, this updated hotel still maintains a powerful air of nostalgia, its architecture loyal to its Western whereabouts and its decor reminiscent of an antique hunting lodge. The Railway Hotel features nearly 300 rooms with wifi, as well as a restaurant, a pub, an indoor pool, and sits just walking distance from the historic Grand Canyon Railway. The train is still in operation today, offering daily service from Williams, Arizona to the Grand Canyon Depot, a little over a 2-hour journey each way.

235 N Grand Canyon Blvd, Williams, AZ 86046

Reservations: (928) 635-4010

Bright Angel Lodge

The Bright Angel Lodge is a beautiful accommodation located right on the rim of the canyon. Designed by famous American Southwest architect Mary Jane Colter, this historic dwelling has hosted guests for nearly 100 years. Discover preserved artifacts like postcards, photographs, and an authentic surrey carriage. Relax by the hearth of the magnificent fireplace designed to emulate the stacked geologic layers of the Grand Canyon. After a long day of exploring the sights, sit down for a meal at the lodge’s family-style diner. For a fine dining experience, reserve a table at the Arizona Room. You will also find a Western saloon and a gift shop.

Bright Angel features 90 rooms ranging from cozy and historic to standard hotel-style. Several of the rooms offer fantastic views of the canyon landscape. The lodge also boasts several full cabins available for rent, notably the Buckey O’Neill Cabin – the oldest structure built on the South Rim – and the Red Horse Cabin. As one of the premiere accommodations in the canyon, Bright Angel Lodge is regularly at full capacity so booking in advance is imperative.

9 North Village Loop Drive, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Reservations: (928) 638-2631

El Tovar Hotel

Within the Grand Canyon Village Historic District, the El Tovar hotel is the epitome of luxury. Opened in 1905, this world-class hotel was considered by elite society to be the most elegant hotel in the West. Some of its historic visitors include Theodore Roosevelt – a lifelong lover of the canyon, Albert Einstein, Paul McCartney, and Bill Clinton. Today its blend of rustic ambience and elaborate European architecture gives guests a taste of the evolution of the hotel throughout the century.

There are 78 rooms within the El Tovar, including 12 suites. Because of the many renovations the hotel underwent, no two rooms are identical. Each suite also boasts its own theme and decor to match. A choice few even offer breathtaking views of the canyon just outside. Booking in advance is highly recommended and necessary for the rooms offering canyon views.

After touring the canyon, reserve a table at the hotel’s first rate dining room. Chefs combine natural products from El Tovar’s own farm to create exquisite creations for their diners to enjoy. Guests can also relax in the lounge for an evening cocktail and browse the offerings of the extensive wine list. Perhaps the most impressive feature of the hotel is the view from the balcony, just a mere 20 feet from the Grand Canyon’s edge.

While its high demand makes it necessary to book well into the future, a stay at the El Tovar is well worth the advanced planning. Nowhere else at the canyon can one experience rustic opulence like this hotel. When it comes to luxury destinations at the Grand Canyon, the El Tovar hotel is the final word.

1 El Tovar Road, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Reservations: (928) 638-2631

Thunderbird Lodge

The Thunderbird Lodge features contemporary architecture and amenities. It is the ideal spot for guests looking for a modern twist on their stay in the the Historic District. This mid-century construction sits gracefully at the edge of the canyon, offering a fantastic view – even partially visible from some of the rooms. All rooms are similar in size and feature large televisions with satellite cable as well as WiFi.

Located in the center of the historic district, the Thunderbird Lodge is just a short walk from the other hotels and dining rooms, and of course the Grand Canyon itself. In fact, just a quick walk from the hotel are both the Kolb Studio and the Lookout Studio. These two historic photography studios have provided perfect views of the canyon’s expanse for over 100 years. The Thunderbird is also next to the Rim Trail, which offers a nearly 13-mile hike for active guests. Those looking for shorter hikes can make a 2-mile trip to the Yavapai Geology Museum or just 1 mile to the Trail View Overlook. The trails lead to further lookout points like Mather Point and Yavapai Point, where phenomenal views of the Grand Canyon are to be seen – especially at sunrise and sunset.

The Thunderbird Lodge is a perfect destination for those looking to experience the majesty of the Grand Canyon while still enjoying a modern ambiance.

7 North Village Loop Drive, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Reservations: (928) 638-2631

Kachina Lodge

Centrally located in the Grand Canyon Village, Kachina Lodge offers a modern touch to the historic district. The hotel, built in the 1960s, still boasts its modernist architecture today – though the rooms have been updated with satellite TV and other modern amenities. Likely the most sought-after aspect of the Kachina Lodge are the rooms facing the Grand Canyon, offering a spectacular view from your own window. If you stay at the Kachina, you’ll be near everything: souvenir shops, various restaurants, the Kolb studio, and of course – the canyon rim.

Guests checking in for the Kachina Lodge must do so at the El Tovar Hotel.

5 North Village Loop Drive

Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Reservations: (928) 638-2631

Yavapai Lodge

Yavapai Lodge offers cozy accommodations as well as several dining options onsite. You can stop at the Yavapai Lodge Restaurant for Western-inspired barbecue dishes or relax at the tavern and enjoy a local beer or some appetizers. There’s even a coffee shop for guests to get a head start on their morning before sightseeing. The lodging here is divided into East and West buildings: the Yavapai Lodge East offering air-conditioned rooms, while the West uses ceiling fans. It is also important to note that the Yavapai Lodge West building offers pet-friendly rooms! Yavapai Lodge is just a short distance from the Grand Canyon Village and just a mile from the canyon’s edge.

11 Yavapai Lodge Rd, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

Reservations: (877) 404-4611

Grand Canyon Lodge

Nestled in the most remote and wild region of the National Park, the Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim offers guests a more quiet stay than the bustling hotels at the South Rim. Though it is a rugged and historic construction, the Grand Canyon Lodge is the only fully-developed lodging available in the North Rim. Guests can stay in the hotel or choose from several cozy cabins surrounded by lush forests of ponderosa pines. Here the canyon is at its highest altitude and is much cooler in temperature. From the lodge guests can view the North Kaibab Trail, Bright Angel Creek, and of course the canyon itself. Relax in the Sun Room, situated specifically to offer a perfect view of the sprawling canyon walls. Later, enjoy a meal in the Dining Room with the canyon’s rim just outside the wall-to-wall windows. Demand for a seat in the Dining Room is high and advanced reservations are necessary.

Grand Canyon National Park, AZ-67, North Rim, AZ 86023

Reservations: (877) 386-4383

Open Season Calls (May – October): 928-638-2611

Off-Season Calls (November – April): 928-645-6865

Reservations: 877-386-4383

Intl: 480-337-1320

Phantom Ranch

Phantom Ranch is the only lodging to be found at the bottom of the canyon. While the lodge was built in the 1920s, the land was occupied by Native Americans as early as 1050 BCE, as evidenced by ceremonial kivas and the remains of ancient dwellings have been uncovered in the area. Architect Mary Jane Colter designed the lodge to mimic the massive stone walls of the canyon using rock excavated from the area. The rugged rock face of this lodge provides the perfect camouflage to blend the building into the canyon backdrop; Perhaps this is the reason Colter chose the name “Phantom Ranch”.

This exclusive and remote lodge can only be reached by hiking, mule ride, or on a boat or raft. The hike to Phantom Ranch is between 7.5-10 miles, and temperature in the canyon’s Inner Gorge can reach as high as 120°F (48°C). Phantom Ranch accommodates hikers in men’s and women’s dormitories and other guests in small cabins. In its commitment to providing a nature-focused experience, the ranch has no modern amenities aside from heat and air conditioning. Phantom Ranch is one of the most high-demand lodging options in the Grand Canyon area. Its limited cabins and dormitory space requires prospective guests to make reservations up to a year or more in advance. A bed at the Phantom Ranch is well worth the wait, though; to sleep at the bottom of the canyon is an opportunity very few will ever experience.

Grand Canyon National Park Backcountry Reservations Office

PO Box 129, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Reservations within the US: 888-29-PARKS (888-297-2757)

Reservations Outside the US: 303-29-PARKS (303-297-2757)

Lodging Outside the National Park

Canyon Plaza Resort Grand Canyon

406 Canyon Plaza Ln, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

(928) 638-2673

Red Feather Lodge

300 AZ-64, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

(928) 638-2414

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Grand Canyon

226 AZ-64, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

(928) 638-3000

The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon

149 AZ-64, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

(928) 638-3333

Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire Inn

74 AZ-64, Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023

(928) 638-2681

The History and Culture of the Hualapai Tribe

Alex Santanna — Wed, 14 Jan 2015 10:09:00 GMT

When you are getting ready to go on vacation, have you ever wondered about the history of the location and the people that call the place home? Of the large amount of visitors to the Hoover Dam each year, many may not already know about the rich history and culture of the Hualapai tribe. The Hualapai, which means “people of the tall pines,” have lived near the site of the present-day Hoover Dam as far back as 600 A.D. Though their ancestral land once stretched five million acres, today their reservation is just 100,000 acres in size.

The Hualapai tribe approved a constitution in 1938 and is known for a 1941 Supreme Court decision in which the tribe was able to hold onto reservation land rather than concede it for the building of the Santa Fe Railroad. The next time you plan to travel to the Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon, be sure to research more about the Hualapai people and their role in the shaping of the western part of the United States.

Viva Las Vegas by the Numbers

Alex Santanna — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 10:14:00 GMT

As they say, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Traveling to Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, can lead to some memorable nights filled with concerts, shows, gambling, and sightseeing. However, how much do you really know about the desert oasis? Nevada, which was acquired in 1848, officially became a state in 1864. The city of Las Vegas was not established until 1905 and didn’t contain its first licensed casino until early in 1931. The Hoover Dam, located at the nearby city of Boulder City, began construction in 1931 and was completed in 1936. The dam provides power to not only the state of Nevada, but also California and Arizona.

Since that time the population of Las Vegas has exploded, growing by over 83 percent since 1990 alone. The city saw nearly 40 million visitors in 2013, 15 percent of which are visiting Las Vegas for the first time. It is no surprise that gambling is the major industry and source of income for the town. This can be seen in the fact that there is one slot machine in Las Vegas for every eight residents. Each year the city makes about $9.7 billion in gaming revenue, while the largest jackpot ever topped out at $40 million. Before your next trip to fabulous Las Vegas, learn more about the rich history and economic importance of the city.

Top Family Vacations

Alex Santanna — Wed, 17 Sep 2014 13:25:00 GMT

Now that the summer is over and the kids are back in school, you are undoubtedly counting down the days until your next vacation. From going to work to shuttling your children around from one activity to another, each passing day brings you one step closer to being able to get away for a bit. When planning out your next family vacation, you want to get the most out of your time together with your loved ones, which is why it is a good idea to visit the top destinations around the country.

One of the seven natural wonders on Earth, the Grand Canyon gets around five million visitors each year and offers hiking, horseback riding, camping, helicopter tours, and more. The San Diego area has some of the best beaches in America, in addition to attractions such as Legoland, Sea World, and Petco Park. A trip to New York City is a must for everyone in your family, or you can visit Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming for a natural getaway unlike any other. No matter what the interests are in your family, you will be sure to find the perfect spot for your next family vacation.