The Grand Canyon is a popular destination, with good reason. You can experience the canyon's unique and stunning beauty directly by engaging in a variety of recreational activities in and around the canyon. Whether you prefer hiking, camping, rafting or just seeing the sights, the Grand Canyon is a special place that offers a lot to those who enjoy playing in the outdoors.
Camping
If you want to really get to know the Grand Canyon, consider staying inside of it. There are two campgrounds on the more popular South Rim, and there's another campground on the less-developed North Rim. All offer tent and RV camping, with no hookups. If you'd rather rough it a bit more, try backcountry camping. You must first obtain a backcountry permit through the Backcountry Information Center. While camping, the permit must be visible on the outside of your tent at all times.
Hiking
There's no better way to see the Grand Canyon up close than by hiking in it. This can be very strenuous, so make sure you're physically prepared. Bring lots of food, water and adequate clothing to respond to rapid temperature changes, especially if you're hiking in the summer. The nine-mile Bright Angel Trail is a popular choice, especially for those who've never hiked down into the canyon before. Unlike most other trails in the park, Bright Angel offers rest houses and potable water, and it's patrolled by rangers. You can access the trailhead near Kolb Studio in Grand Canyon Village.
Rafting
Imagine floating down a stretch of lazy river—or braving the rapids, if that's more your style—at the bottom of the world's deepest canyon. There are several river trips you can take in Grand Canyon National Park. The most popular are half- or full-day rafting adventures, on your choice of calm or white water. Most run between Lees Ferry and Glen Canyon Dam. Several operators offer multi-day trips from Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek. According to the National Park Service website, commercial trips are often reserved up to two years in advance. Experienced rafters wanting to go it alone have to qualify through a weighted lottery system.
Mule Riding
If you really want to see the bottom of the Grand Canyon but can't imagine walking all the way down, let alone up, consider taking a mule ride. The National Park Service offers mule trips year-round from the South Rim, and from May until October from the North Rim. Choose from a one-hour, three-hour, half-day or overnight trip. Overnight packages include accommodation at a ranch down in the canyon. Trips often fill up months in advance, so make your reservations early. Mule riders can't weigh more than 200 pounds, and they must be at least 4 feet 7 inches tall.
Train Riding
If you need a break from outdoor activities, consider a train ride. Sit back, relax and watch the desert scenery on a vintage steam train ride from the town of Williams, Arizona to the rim of the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon Railway has offered tours since 1901. Leave the station at Williams and travel 130 miles to the South Rim of the canyon. Drinks and snacks are available on the air-conditioned, vintage cars. Tours depart each day and take about eight hours round-trip.
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