36. Yavapai Lodge Tavern.
39. El Tovar Hotel.
After adventuring along the canyon’s South Rim, visitors can relax at the Yavapai Tavern with drinks and dinner on the outdoor patio. www.visitgrandcanyon.com.
A National Historic Landmark, El Tovar Hotel first opened its doors in 1905. Designed as a cross between a Swiss chalet and Norwegian villa, it is located right on the canyon’s South Rim and offers fine dining, a gift shop, lounge and 78 rooms for overnight stays. www.grandcanyonlodges. com.
37. Cycle to Hermit’s Rest. At the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, the Hermit’s Rest Road heads west for eight miles to the gift shop and snack bar at Hermit’s Rest. Along the way are incredible viewpoints and a quieter Canyon experience, which makes for a perfect bicycle ride. A rental service is offered through Bright Angel Bicycles. Visit www.bikegrandcanyon.com.
38. Desert View Watchtower. The Desert View Watchtower rises 70 feet along the edge of the rim. The visitor contact station and bookstore are closed as of publication, but the tower, another part of Colter’s legacy, is still worth the view. Take U.S. 89 north from Flagstaff to Cameron and then follow Route 64 west to the South Rim. www.nps.gov/grca.
40. IMAX Experience. Regular screenings of Grand Canyon: The Hidden Secrets at the IMAX theater, located in Tusayan on the way to the South Rim, provides a thrilling introduction to the Grand Canyon on a six-story, 80-foot-plus wide screen. It’s a great place to stop and take the family, as it is sure to get the kids more excited about what the canyon has to offer with one of the world’s most watched films. Learn more at www.explorethecanyon.com.
41. Grand Canyon by Air/Boat/ Mule.
The ways people can experience the wonders of the Grand Canyon are varied. River trips often become life-changing as groups are guided through the gorge’s rapids completely disconnected from the outside world for as long as three weeks. Go to www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/ whitewater-rafting.htm to get started. Helicopter and plane tours also offer unique perspectives of the canyon. Visit www. grandcanyoncvb.org for more information. Then there are the classic mule rides down the Bright Angel Trail to Phantom Ranch. Learn more about the trips, prices and weight restrictions at www.nps.gov/grca/ planyourvisit/mule_trips.htm.
42. Hiking the Canyon. In excess of 300 developed miles of routes and six major entry points located near or at the developed South Rim offer the chance to find adventure within the canyon. Find one fit for your ability at www.nps.gov/grca / planyourvisit/backcountry.htm.
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