Walk above the Grand Canyon
Photo courtesy of GrandCanyonWest.com
The Grand Canyon Skywalk is 4,000 feet of pure adrenaline. A see-through glass floor allows visitors to walk 70 feet out from the rim for a completely new perspective on the canyon. Even if you’re not afraid of heights, you may not want to look down.
Bike on the edge`
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Sometimes a view looks totally different from a new angle. How about exploring the canyon from the a bicycle saddle? A 7-mile jaunt down Hermit Road follows the rim of the canyon for an exciting ride along the edge. With multiple scenic overlooks, and a roadway that’s largely closed to traffic, this is a peaceful (and healthy) way to enjoy one of the most beautiful parks in the country. And don’t worry about flying with your bike—the national park service has plenty of rentals.
Take a helicopter ride
Photo by Oscar Sutton vis Unsplash
If the Skywalk wasn’t adventurous enough for you, what about seeing the Grand Canyon from the sky? Papillon Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours have trips varying from 25 minutes to 3 hours, while Grand Canyon Helicopters offer trips to the surrounding areas. Vegas, anyone?
Raft down the Grand
Photo by Rune Haugseng vis Unsplash
Arizona can be sweltering in the summer, so one way to cool off is by rafting the canyon. White water rafting is fast-paced excitement, and maybe just a little cold. It’s a fun way to get a new perspective in an incredible landscape, and a great activity if you’re in the Grand Canyon with kids. If you have limited time, GrandCanyon.com offers one-day rafting trips, while Grand Canyon White Water offers a variety of trip options, including the opportunity to customize your own trip.
Hike the North Rim
Photo by Ryan Jones via Unsplash
Some of the best hikes in this national park are just off the beaten path. The North Rim receives only 10 percent of visitors, which is a shame because it offers equally incredible views of mountain valleys and wildlife. If you’re already down south, it’s a 215-mile drive away, but if you’re seeking solitude in one of America’s most popular tourist attractions, this is the place to find it. Find trail information here.
What’s your non-traditional way to explore this incredible national park?
