America might receive criticism for its larger-than-life approach, but when it comes to the Grand Canyon, bigger is definitely better. One glance over the edge is enough to understand why. The sheer size of the canyon allows us to appreciate Earth’s history, unfolding layer by dramatic layer. Most tourists take in the canyon from the rim or hike within it, but there are four alternative adventurous ways to explore this natural wonder:

1. White-Water Rafting

Experience the heart-pumping excitement of rafting down the Colorado River. The canyon’s true magnificence is best understood while gazing up from the water. Its human history comes to life through ruins, wreckage, and rock art. Discover enchanting grottos and waterfalls, wander through otherworldly slot canyons, and observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

Commercial rafting trips range from three days to three weeks. Motorized pontoon rafts offer the most stability, while oar boats are exhilarating and more common. For a unique experience, consider floating in a river dory – a small, elegant hard-shelled rowboat that carries four passengers. However, if you’re seeking thrills, an inflatable raft will have you, your fellow adventurers, and a guide paddling in unison.

At night, you’ll camp under the stars on sandy beaches (equipment provided). But don’t be fooled – this isn’t as primitive as it sounds. Guides are known not only for their rafting expertise but also for their culinary prowess.

Experienced river guides recommend planning a trip in April or between mid-September and mid-October. During these times, the air temperatures are mild, and rafters can tackle day hikes that are impossible during summer. The downsides of spring or fall excursions include occasional storms, headwinds, and shorter daylight hours. A full 279-mile journey through the canyon takes about two or three weeks, while shorter 100-mile sections can be completed in four to nine days.

2. Mule Rides

If you want to explore the inner canyon on muleback, you must commit to an overnight trip to the bottom. Alternatively, there’s a three-hour ride from Grand Canyon Village to the Abyss Overlook, which features a 3,000-foot vertical drop beside Hermit Rd.

Rides depart daily from the stone corral west of Bright Angel Lodge and traverse a mule trail through ponderosas, junipers, and piñons. Overnight trips journey 10 miles down via the Bright Angel Trail to Phantom Ranch and climb 8 miles up the South Kaibab Trail.

Riders must be at least 4ft 7in tall, fluent in English, and weigh 200lbs or less (225lbs for a day trip). Wranglers require that riders wear a hat tied to their head (April to October), a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants.

To book a mule trip more than 24 hours and up to 13 months in advance, contact Xanterra. If you arrive at the park without a reservation, stop by the Bright Angel Lodge transportation desk to check availability. If fully booked, sign the waiting list, show up at 6:15 am the following day, and hope for a cancellation. Alternatively, try the North Rim: mule rides there are often available the day before the trip.

3. Mountain Biking

Mountain bikers have limited options inside the park, as bicycles are only allowed on roads and the Greenway Trail (this will change as the Greenway Plan progresses). Hermit Rd offers a picturesque ride west to Hermits Rest, approximately 16 miles round-trip from the village. Be aware that shuttles pass this road every 10 to 15 minutes between March and November. They cannot overtake bicyclists, so you’ll need to pull over each time one approaches. During the rest of the year, traffic is minimal, making for a delightful ride.

Grand Canyon shuttle buses are equipped with racks that can hold up to three bikes. Another option is to ride to the East Entrance along Desert View Dr, a 50-mile round-trip journey from the village. This route has fewer shuttles but sees significant car traffic in the summer.

Just off Desert View Dr, the 1-mile dirt road to Shoshone Point provides an easy, nearly level ride that ends at this secluded panoramic viewpoint – one of the few places to escape South Rim crowds. The Greenway Trail, which runs between Canyon View Information Plaza and Grand Canyon Village, is open to cyclists but is shared with pedestrians and wheelchairs.

4. Helicopter Tours

When it comes to exploring the sprawling magnificence of the Grand Canyon, nothing matches the excitement and awe of a helicopter tour. The experience offers a bird’s-eye view of some of the most stunning landscapes on earth, along with a unique perspective that ground-based tours simply can’t provide.

Helicopter Tour Options

  • The South Rim: Often referred to as the “True Grand Canyon,” the South Grand Canyon helicopter tours offer breathtaking views of the widest and deepest parts of the canyon, encompassing a vast array of geological colors and erosional forms.
  • The North Rim: Less frequented than the South Rim, North Rim tours are for those looking for a more secluded and raw view of the Grand Canyon. The change in vegetation and more rugged terrain offers a different palette of the Canyon’s beauty.
  • The West Rim: Known for the famous Skywalk glass bridge, West Rim Grand Canyon helicopter tours provide a closer look at this man-made marvel. You can see the contrast between the natural rock formations and the human ingenuity that spans across them.

Why Choose a Helicopter Tour?

  • Unmatched Views: Helicopter tours give you the advantage of reaching heights and vantage points that are otherwise inaccessible, providing an all-encompassing view of the Grand Canyon’s grandeur.
  • Time Efficiency: If you’re short on time but want to see as much of the canyon as possible, a helicopter tour is a perfect solution. It offers a comprehensive experience of the area’s beauty in a fraction of the time it would take to hike.
  • Educational Commentary: As you fly, pilots often provide commentary, sharing insights about the canyon’s history, geology, and the native flora and fauna, making the tour not only visually stimulating but also informative.
  • Safety and Comfort: Helicopter tours are conducted in state-of-the-art aircraft with experienced pilots, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey from takeoff to landing.

Tips for Booking a Helicopter Tour

  • Book in Advance: These tours are popular and can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Early booking ensures you secure your preferred date and time.
  • Consider the Time of Day: Morning flights can offer clearer views, while afternoon flights highlight the canyon’s colors. Sunset tours, though pricier, offer the chance to see the canyon awash in the golden hues of twilight.
  • Check Weight Restrictions: For safety, helicopters have strict weight and balance restrictions. Check these in advance to avoid any issues on the day of the flight.
  • Camera Ready: The views are stunning, and you’ll want to capture them. Ensure your camera is charged, and you have enough memory space for the numerous photos you’ll want to take.

A helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon is more than just a trip; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle, a chance to witness one of the world’s natural wonders from a perspective that few ever will.

Whether it’s the comprehensive experience of the South Rim, the remote wilderness of the North Rim, or the thrilling landscapes of the West Rim, each offers a unique way to appreciate the vast beauty of this ancient landmark.