If you have recently discovered your desire to visit the country and have taken to nature like a fish to water, you may need to know that there is a lot you can do while you are out in the open. For the real nature lover, there is nothing more exciting than taking a Fox rental car and riding off into the wilderness for a few days with a map and no particular structured plan. Irrespective of whether you are planning a fishing trip or deciding to go on a three day trek, there are various options that you have for lodging.

National Park Lodging: Camping

If you are someone who likes to rough it out, camping will prove to be fun. This is something that you can do with your kids too if they are old enough to enjoy a campfire. Almost all national Parks have specific camping grounds where you can pitch your tent and plan the evening. If you are doing this for the first time, it might be a good idea to try your hand at pitching a tent and also to read up on some of the basic safety aspects of camping. This is even more important if you are planning to camp in the wilderness or in a forest where there is a threat of animal attacks. So be prepared with a pepper spray, just in case.

National Park Lodging: RVs

Those who like to hit the road when they like and at whatever time they choose prefer to opt for a recreational vehicle or RV as they are called. All National Parks have RV hook up places where you can connect to the various amenities that are provided. These include Internet access, electricity and some television viewing options too. So you can actually travel and stay with all the luxury in your RV that you are accustomed to.

National Park Lodging: Lodge

For those who would rather have the comfort of a clean bed and a hot bath after a long day trek, there is the option of using the services of a lodge. Most of the rooms and cabins in the lodge are equipped with television sets, air conditioning and Internet so that you feel at home once you are back from roughing it out. The level of amenities and the comfort generally varied on the kind of lodge that you choose. You may get a couple of options in one National Park to choose from but do not expect to get a long list of options that you can get choosy about.

National Park Lodging: Backcountry

If you want the real taste of the locality that you are visiting whether it is Yellowstone National Park or the Yosemite National Park. Not only do you get to see the real rustic life, you are also able to check out some of the spots that only the locals are aware of, if you mingle with them and get talking. If you are a bird watcher or an animal enthusiast or an angler, this is one the best lodging options that you have since you can get the best information about bird and animal spotting spots and fishing locations too.

Which lodging options do you prefer in National Parks?

About Fox Rent A Car:

Fox Rent A Car, your discount car rental company, has been providing excellent customer service along with low rates for rental cars since its founding in 1989. Today, our success in these areas has enabled us to develop into the largest independent car rentals company headquartered in California. You will find Fox Car Rental offices conveniently located at major airports throughout the world.

Even though the summer months are not the ideal time for hikes, many families can only go hiking between July and September, the time when their kids have their summer break from school. But how can you be prepared for a long hike during 90 degrees F? How can your body and mind stay active enough to not only keep you safe and sound, but also lets you enjoy your summer hike? There are a few things you must consider when you go hiking in the summer, and we at Fox Rent A Car will get you on track!

Summer hike: Start early!

If you go hiking in the summer you do not want to start late. Only the early bird catches the worm! Start your hike when the sun goes up so that you walk while it is still cool. No summer hiker wants to leave the house in the heat of midday, since this is not only uncomfortable, but even a health hazard.

Summer hike: Drink and eat!

Give your body a lot of water. A hiker does lose a about 1/2 to 1 quart of water each hour of hiking, so carry to least that much water with you plus twice as much for the return hike. If you plan a longer hike and don’t like carrying water bottles, try the camelbacks. Those ones hold plenty of water and you carry them on your back. Also, you should pack some small snacks that you can eat during your hike. A salty snack is best since it will help your body to retain water.

Summer hike: Cool your body down!

When you go hiking on a hot day it is very important that you cool your body down as much as you can. You can either buy a misting system, or you put a moist towel on the back of your neck which will help to keep your body temperature stable. Don’t panic if you start to sweat while hiking, this is very important for your body and a normal reaction. Try not to wear a hat, as it will keep the heat in your body. Rather use a sunscreen as protection for your eyes. The best cooling system however is to jump into a small river keeping your clothes on. This will cool your body down for a long time.

Summer hike: Dress accordingly

How should I dress when I go hiking in the summer? Many people ask themselves this question and there is a simple answer. Wear long pants to protect and cover your legs. Many hiking pants that you can buy won’t make you sweat and let the wind go through. Wear a short-sleeved shirt, or a thin long-sleeve shirt that breathes and lets air cool your body down naturally.

Summer hike: Always hike in groups!

You should never hike alone, especially when it is very warm. Always have at least one other person with you so that you can watch each other and check that both of you drink enough water. You should have a cell phone handy and a map where you can clearly see where you are at. This was you can get found in case of an emergency, or plan how to get back home safely.

Take your time and enjoy your hike!

Don’t forget that you are hiking, and not in a competition. Hiking in warm weather already is very demanding for your body so make sure you know your personal limits and stay comfortable. The Fox Rent A Car team wishes you a great and relaxing summer hike!

About Fox Rent A Car:

Fox Rent A Car, your discount car rental company, has been providing excellent customer service along with low rates for rental cars since its founding in 1989. Today, our success in these areas has enabled us to develop into the largest independent car rentals company headquartered in California. You will find Fox Car Rental offices conveniently located at major airports throughout the world.

Did you know that only about 9% of Napa county is actually covered with vine plants? It does look from the freeways as if all of the fields and grass areas grow vine, but if you take a look at Napa from a hiker’s point of view, you will discover the large fields and hills between the vine fields, and get amazing views over the vineyards from the top of smaller mountains. Napa has a perfect climate for hikers – warm, but not hot. Especially spring and fall are highly recommended for hiking in Napa Valley. High humidity to let those beautiful forests grow that will provide you with some shade during the warm summer days. Fox Rent A Car wants to present you some of the paths with different difficulty levels so that you can pick where to go!

Redwood, Ritchey Canyon Trails

This trail at Bothe-Napa Valley State Park starts just in the middle between St. Helena, CA and Calistoga, CA. You can hike up to 6.5 miles (round trip), and the total elevation on the hike is 1,200 foot. You will pass amazing trees and enjoy pure nature. There is a camping ground next to the trail, so if you plan to hike for a little while, why would you not want to camp there?  Ritchey Creek will be your companion throughout the hike, be careful though if it rains, since the water level can rise easily.

Robert Louis Stevenson SP

Do you know who is Robert Louis Stevenson? He is the author of Treasure Island, a fascinating piece of work we all know! Stevenson spent his honeymoon at this park in 1880 and until today, the site where he stayed at is marked. Today, you can hike through this State Park up to the top of Mt. St. Helena. The hike is five miles, partially through rough terrain. However, you will get rewarded with the amazing view of the Bay Area!

Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park

The center of this park is a grist mill that was built in the late 1840’s and gets its energy from a beautiful water wheel. There is a 2-mile hiking trail (round-trip) down to the Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. There are regular events at the mill that allow you to get inside the building and to receive a free tour. Mostly, those demonstrations take place on the weekends, so maybe you get lucky on the day of your hike?

Napa River Trail

Napa River Trail is about 2.4 miles and has very little elevation. It is easy to hike on this trail so even if you are not very active or sporty, you can walk here very smoothly and comfortably. You can also take your dog here and let him run. The walk basically leads you from the North of the city of Napa, down to the South part.

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park

Sugarloaf Ridge offers wonderful hiking trails that allow you to fully enjoy gorgeous views of Napa Valley. There is a 6-mile loop so you can spend a whole day hiking through the vine valleys. Hike on the Bald Mountain, Vista, Gray Pine, and Meadow Trails and see why Napa Valley belongs to one of the most beautiful parts of California.

If you know any hiking trails that you would like to tell us about, let us know! The Fox Rent A Car team wishes you a wonderful time in Hiking in Napa Valley!

About Fox Rent A Car:

Fox Rent A Car, your discount car rental company, has been providing excellent customer service along with low rates for rental cars since its founding in 1989. Today, our success in these areas has enabled us to develop into the largest independent car rentals company headquartered in California. You will find Fox Car Rental offices conveniently located at major airports throughout the world.

WIN A FREE CAR RENTAL FOR JULY 4th HOLIDAY!!!

Leave a comment on this post and win a complimentary three day rental
overthe July 4th weekend from Fox Rent A Car!

It’s easy… Here is all you have to do.  Simply comment on  this post and tell us your most funny and hilarious July 4th story in 200 words or less. The story can be about you, your  family, your friends and any funny or compromising situation that any of you have been involved in over a July 4th  holiday. This could be a story that you have been telling each other for the last several years, and it always comes up over the July 4th holiday. Share your story with us and it may be chosen as the best one posted. We look forward to hearing from you.Win a Rental Car for 4th of July!

Requirements of participation:

1. Participants cannot be employed by Fox Rent A Car.

2. Leave a comment on this blog with a short story (up to 200 words), about your funniest event on a 4th July.

3. Promotion ends on June 24, 2010 at 12.00 PM PST

4. Winner will be notified by email on June 26, 2010 and have to respond within 48 hours with the complete contact information. If we do not receive a response within this given period, we will select another winner.

5. Winner will be selected for originality and creativity by the Fox Rent A Car Marketing Department and therefore may be subjective.

6. Available Cars: Economy through Full-size cars and intermediate SUV.

7. Fox Rent A Car will give out 1 (one) rental car to the selected winner for a rental period of 3 days. (Fees, taxes, and optional insurance are not covered by the promotion and have to be paid by winner)

8. Pick up date must be anytime from July 1-31, 2010 at any of our Fox Rent A Car locations.

9. Fox Rent A Car Standard Policies apply.

What are you waiting for?

Make us laugh really hard and win a free rental car for the 2010 4^th of July Weekend from Fox Rent A Car!

Statistics show that more and more grandparents take their grand children on a vacation. While in former days, the kids visited their grandparent’s houses, today all of them discover new places and have their travel adventures together! Which kid (and his or her parents) can say no to this opportunity? Travel Industry Association of America found out that 30% of all U.S. American leisure travelers who are grandparents, took their grand children on one trip or more! Did you know that there is even an official name for grand parents traveling with their grand children? It’s called grand travel! Even more and more kids and teenagers feel confident traveling with their grand parents – but what should all of them know and consider? Fox Rent A Car prepared a list of useful tips for traveling with grand children:

Travel with Grand Children: Medical Security and Official Documents

Make sure you have copies of the medical cards for all of your grand children, as well as permission from the parents that you can make medical care decisions! Note – you will need a notarized letter in case of an emergency. Also take all prescription cards, make sure your grand children have  dental insurance and their insurance is valid in the location you will go to! Always have a list of emergency contacts with you. Also, you need to make sure your grand children have a valid ID card with them. Eventually, even take their passports too. This is a worst case scenario, that nobody wants to happen, but if it does, it helps if you are prepared.

Travel with Grand Children: Planning Phase

Who decides where to go to, what to do, where to stay, when to travel? It may take a little longer to prepare everything, but discuss options with your grand children. Where would they like to go to? What can you do with them, and what is just too much for all of you? Combine your experiences and their creativity; the results will amaze all of you. You can also plan by using senior and kids’ discounts – in the end you will pay less with those discounts than using a family ticket!

Travel with Grand Children: On the road/ airplane

Remember how it was when you traveled with your own children? They needed to be entertained, especially in those “boring times” of sitting in the car, on the airport or in the train. Make sure you have some games handy, some music or books. Try to do something exciting with your grand children – they can watch their DVDs at home, too. Play and learn, isn’t that what grandparents offer to their grand children? Also check out our collection of posts about traveling with kids.

Travel with Grand Children: Your trip

Again – playing and learning is what your trip should be about. Show your grand children that there is a life without TV, computer and Xbox. In the end, it is just like in the old days: the more energy the children use during the day, the better they will sleep at night and the more comfortable they will become to spend time with their grand parents. Respect each other though – the world has simply changed so much during the past decades, you may just need to accept new hobbies, as weird as they may be for you! Consult the parents if you are not sure. Also, don’t forget that the kids won’t get tired as easily as you will!

Travel with Grand Children: After the trip

When everybody gets back home, its always a feeling of relief, but even a little sadness since the adventure “grand travel” is over. But take a few hours, and prepare a little presentation of your trip with your grand children! Using their computers to show the pictures, tell everybody what a wonderful trip it was! Be a good example of a person, parent and grand parent, and enjoy the time with the little ones as much as you can!

Have you traveled with your grand children before? Where did you go to, and what advises do you have for other grand parents? What is a must-do, what is a must-not-do? Share your stories and experiences, and help grand traveling even more!

About Fox Rent A Car:

Fox Rent A Car, your discount car rental company, has been providing excellent customer service along with low rates for rental cars since its founding in 1989. Today, our success in these areas has enabled us to develop into the largest independent car rentals company headquartered in California. You will find Fox Car Rental offices conveniently located at major airports throughout the world.

Memorial Day 2010: a day to remember, a day to honor. Nevertheless, the Memorial Day weekend is the official time to start off into a great summer! Throughout the country you will find all kind of events and places to go to. Whether you love crowds and the festive parades, or rather explore new hide-away spots, here are the 5 best Memorial Day Events and getaways in Northern California:

Memorial Day Weekend in San Francisco:

The thing to do on Memorial Day weekend is to go and see the traditional parade at the Presidio. The parade starts in the Main Post and ends at the San Francisco National Cemetery, where the Memorial Day ceremony takes places. Afterwards, feel free to stroll around on the Cemetery grounds and honor veterans and the fallen soldiers. You can see last years’ pictures here .For more information on how to get to the parade and where you can park your car, click here

Memorial Day Weekend at Yosemite National Park:

The park on the Memorial Day weekend may be crowded, but for a good reason. Spring is here! The snow is gone, flowers are blooming, the nature is awake and presents itself in the most beautiful and amazing ways you can imagine. Watch wild animals, hike through untouched nature, admire nature’s power. A drive to Yosemite National Park on the holiday weekend is definitely worth a second thought. You are want to go to Yosemite National Park, but not on the Memorial day Weekend? Find some handy tips when is the best time to visit.

Memorial Day Weekend in Arcata, CA:

About 7 hours north of San Francisco you will find yourself in Arcata, CA, a little college town on the Humboldt Bay. A few minutes out of downtown there is a 10-mile trail through redwood trees and an amazing variety of other plants. Hiking, bicycling, bird-watching, relaxing and enjoying pure nature on one of America’s most important holidays – what else do you want!

Memorial Day Weekend in Santa Clara/ Milpitas:

Events in Milpitas start very early. Already at 9am you will find yourself at the ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Park. For those of you, who rather relax and sleep a little longer, just visit at Oak Hill Memorial Park at 11am, where a group of boy scouts lays wreaths for the fallen. Some of the graves you will find there even are from Civil War veterans. For more events in Milpitas year-round, click here.

Memorial Day Weekend in Mountain View:

The Mountain View Cemetery proudly presents the 89th Annual Memorial Day Commemoration. Afterwards, feel free to participate in a tour where you will learn more about the Civil War, and especially how Californians were involved. Herer is a short outline of the moving moments of last year.

You see, there are hundreds of events on Memorial Day weekend in Northern California to honor the fallen soldiers. Where will we find you? Make sure you plan ahead so you won’t get stucked in traffic and be the early bird to catch parking! Often, the websites of event venues can give you a clear picture of how to get there and where to park. We are definitely looking forward to your stories about how you spent your weekend. Where did you go, and what did you to? Have a great Memorial Day getaway in Northern California!

About Fox Rent A Car:

Fox Rent A Car, your discount car rental company, has been providing excellent customer service along with low rental car rates since its founding in 1989. Today, our success in these areas has enabled us to develop into the largest independent car rentals company headquartered in California. You will find Fox Car Rental offices conveniently located at major airports throughout the world.

Spanning across more than 750,000 acres, the Yosemite National Park has been designated as a World heritage site. It has an amazing display of granite cliffs, streams, waterfalls, caves and groves. The Yosemite Valley is only about one percent of the overall national park.

The hikes available at Yosemite National Park are varied enough to suit anyone, whether you want a casual stroll to laborious hikes that require a lot of effort and strength. Day visitors can hike in areas like Yosemite Valley or Glacier Point. Other hiking areas include Wawona or Mariposa Grove, Tuolumne Meadows, Hetch Hetchy and Crane Flat or White Wolf. Some of the specific hikes that you can attempt at Yosemite Valley or Glacier Point are detailed below:

Hiking in Yosemite National Park: Yosemite Valley

- Bridalveil Fall is a 0.8 kilometer trip that takes about 30 minutes to complete. The trail is paved and leads to the base of the waterfall. You are likely to get sprayed a lot on this hiking trail.
- The Lower Yosemite Fall is a 1.6km round trip that is considered easy to accomplish. You can expect to be rewarded with a mesmerizing view of the upper and lower Yosemite Falls.
- Cook’s Meadow Loop is also about 1.6km trip that begins at the Valley Visitor Center. You can expect to see the half Dome, Glacier Point and the Royal Arches.
- Mirror Lake/Meadow is a round trip of 3.2km. You can also take the longer route that is about 8km but pets and wheelchairs are not allowed on this route. While the water is abundant in the Mirror Lake during summer and spring, the lake has water throughout the year.
- Valley Floor Loop is a moderately tough hike of around 20.9km if you complete the full loop. The trail covers Merced River on the El Capitan Bridge and the Bridalveil Fall. You will also come across Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rocks, Three Brothers and Yosemite Falls.
- Four Mile Trail with a round trip of 15.5km, is a strenuous trip and so you need to be sure that you are fit enough to take this challenge.
- Panorama Trail of around 13.7km is extremely strenuous too and it does become even tougher during the winter months. But if you do decide to go on this hike, you shall be mesmerized with the panoramic view that you will be rewarded with.
- Upper Yosemite Fall, a trail of 11.6km, it is not to be underestimated due to the shorter distance. The trail becomes extremely tough after the Columbia Rock.
Glacier Point Road
- McGurk Meadow, Bridalveil Creek, and Dewey Point are hikes that can be covered in one day trip alone. Starting with the McGurk trail, it merges into the Dewey Point on the West and Bridalveil Creek on the East.
- Sentinel Dome and Taft Point is considered moderate in terms of difficulty. A round trip of 3.5km, you will be able to see the Taft Point and The Fissures.
- Mono Meadow to view of Mount Starr King is a strenuous hike that descends steeply into Mono Meadow.
- Ostrander Lake is also considered a strenuous hike and takes anywhere from 8 to 10 hours to complete. Starting with a gentle incline through forests and meadows there is a 1500 foot steep incline that opens the Yosemite Valley View.
- Glacier Point to Yosemite Valley is yet another strenuous hike where many are recommended to take the hikers bus one way.

Hiking in Yosemite National Park: Wawona and the Mariposa Grove

Wawona and the Mariposa Grove presents the possibilities of a mix of easy, moderate and strenuous hikes too. Some specific ones are the Wawona Meadow Loop, Swinging Bridge Loop, Wawona to Mariposa Grove, Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, Alder Creek and the Chilnualna Falls.

Hiking in Yosemite National Park: Other Trails

Hetch Hetchy has hiking trails like the Lookout Point, Wapama Falls, Rancheria Falls, Smith Peak and the Poopenaut Valley.
Tuolumne Meadows offers hiking trails like Tuolumne Meadows: Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge, Lyell Canyon via the John Muir Trail, Elizabeth Lake, Gaylor Lakes, Cathedral Lakes, Mono Pass, Glen Aulin,
Dog Lake and Lembert Dome and Vogelsang High Sierra Camp.

When on a hiking trail it is recommended that you stay on the trial because shortcuts can cause erosion.Take pets and bikes only on the trails that allow them. Giving way to horses and mules when you are walking is expected on such hikes. For your own safety and health, carry a lot of water while hiking and make your safety your priority, since these trails are not patrolled all the time.

National Parks are such a wonderful treasure. When you arrive in such a large National Park like Death Valley, it is important to know ahead of time what to do and see to make the most of your time and have an unforgettable experience. So here is a guide of things to do in Death Valley National Park.

First, where is Death Valley National Park? It is in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and is located mainly in California, but also stretches into Nevada. The Death Valley National Park does not only include Death Valley itself, but also parts of the Saline Valley and the Panamint Valley. So why visit Death Valley National Park? Every National Park is different and worth a trip, but Death Valley National Park is very unique. From the various activities the park has to offer to the ghost towns and sightseeing, Death Valley National Park is a wonderful adventure to plan.

Death Valley: Scotty’s Castle

Scotty’s Castle is a favorite stop for most tourists that visit Death Valley, so make sure to arrive before the masses and secure your tickets. You should definitely take the tour and learn about the the true owner and construction manager of this amazing Castle in the middle of Death Valley and all the other intriguing and interesting stories about the castle and how it came into existence. Scotty’s Castle is a popular destination, where you can get the full story and an amazing visit of this incredible “castle in the middle of Death Valley.

Death Valley: Borax Museum

As we are talking history, the Borax Museum is a very interesting historical stop in Death Valley. As you may or may not know Borax was a great laundry product, discovered in Death Valley by a miner in the 1800s. The museum retraces the story of the miner who found this “green” detergent. You can find it in Furnace Creek, the village in the center of the park.

Death Valley: The Panamint City

This is one of the most famous ghost towns of Death Valley National Park. It used to be a successful mine town until it was flooded. You can only reach the town after a 5 miles hike. Though a lot of people make it a day trip, you can stay over night and take advantage of the comfortable camps to explore the town and visit the mines. It is a fun and original adventure.

Death Valley: Ubehebe Crater

Ubehebe Crater is, obviously a volcanic area, but also a great hike to take in Death Valley. If you plan on visiting Scotty’s Castle you ought to plan the hike to the crater as well, as it is close by. This is a wonderful site to visit, the colors are amazing, the landscape breath taking… there are no words to describe it. You have to see it!

Death Valley: Titus Canyon

Some people rent a 4-wheel drive to make the visit more adventurous, but you really don’t need it. It is such a wonderful scenic drive, and the road is very accessible by any car. However, if you want to do some off road driving, an SUV are recommended. The road to Titus Canyon is a one-way road. On your way to Titus, make sure to make a stop on the sand dunes in Stovepipe Wells, and visit Rhyolite, another ghost town. Titus Canyon offers incredible panoramic views you can’t miss and amazing hiking experiences.

Death Valley: Badwater

Another great scenic drive in Death Valley National Park is the drive to Badwater. This is the lowest point in Northern America. So what is Badwater exactly? It’s a huge salt lake, south of Furnace Creek. You can walk on the salt. It is usually hot and hard to breath in the summer, but amazing to see.

There are a lot more things to see and do in Death Valley National Park, so make sure to visit its website for a lot more information and maybe plan a guided tour of the park. However, keep in mind that some car and especially RV rental companies do not allow you to drive through Death Valley in the summer. Fox Rent A Car does not have any restrictions. If you decide to rent from another car rental company, remember to plan your trip accordingly and check your rental policy!

Too often when people think National Parks on the West Coast, they think Grand Canyon, Yosemite, Sequoia. They forget about Joshua Tree, which is an amazing treasure, made a National Monument by President Roosevelt. Only a few hours away from San Diego and Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park offers possibilities for a great adventures and escaping the noise of the city.

Where to go in Joshua Tree National Park?

The entrance fee is $15 per car and is valid for 7 days. Unlike most National Parks, Joshua Tree do not require a special backcountry hiking and camping permit, as long as you register your car when parking. Joshua Tree is a large park, so here are the points of interests and sights you should consider:
- Keys View is a great part of the park to discover. You can discover panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and learn all about the San Andreas Fault.
- If you want something far from everything and a little different, go to the Indian Cove. The campground is amazing. Huge rocks surround you. You can find a lot of diverse activities to do from there. Don’t forget to register your car before camping though!
- The Skull Rock in Joshua Tree National Park is a popular stop. The rain erosion transformed the rock in a skull like shape. There are a few nice hiking trails close to Skull Rock it.
- Cottonwood Springs Oasis is a pure treasure of Joshua Tree. It is beautiful and bird watching is very popular there. You can see gold mills used in the late 19th century.
- Black Rock Canyon is a great family campground, with easy access to Yucca Valley. It is a great area to observe wildlife and enjoy the early blooms in the park.

What to do in Joshua Tree National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park offers a lot of outdoor activities and a great environment to enjoy them.
- Rock Climbing is a very popular sport practiced here. The granite boulders give rock climbers some nice challenges.
- Hiking, of course is another popular activities. Joshua Park might not have specific worldfamous landmarks, but it still had great view points and offers a beautiful setting. Many people enjoy hiking the California Hiking & Riding Trail, and the Boy Scout Trail. Ryan Mountain offers the best panoramic view in Joshua Tree. A fun hike is the hike to Carey’s Castle. This special desert castle is a house built in and around the rocks and actually was inhabited at some point. Quite interesting to check out!
- Camping of course, is always a great experience in Joshua Tree National Park. It is the best place to look at stars, away from the city lights. Kids love learning about all the constellations! Don’t forget to register when you enter the park and get all the information you need at the visitors center. You have quite a few campground choices.
- Backpacking is also a fun way to explore Joshua Tree National Park. The best time to go backpacking in Joshua Tree is in Winter and Spring, as you can find running water in the Lost Palms Oasis. But nevertheless, remember to carry at least two gallons of water per person per day. Remember that you are in the desert and staying hydrated is the fist step to staying safe while backpacking in Joshua Tree National Park. If you want to read more about backpacking in this beautiful surrounding and look at some amazing pictures, check out this cool trip report about backpacking in Joshua Tree National Park

- Ranger Programs are also offered in the park. So if you are not sure what to do and where to go, plan hikes with the rangers and learn more about nature and the park.

Remember, just like in any national park, be respectful of the nature and leave the place as you found it. Joshua Tree National Park is another of so many  wonders in California that is really worth the visit.

The Grand Canyon offers a lot of fun and diverse attractions and some the best hiking opportunities. However, if you don’t have the time to plan hikes down the canyon or don’t feel up to do it since they are quite challenging, don’t worry! You can still enjoy a view of the bottom of the Grand Canyon but from the sky! It is not the same as being in the Grand Canyon, but it is just as amazing. The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a must see. Make sure to put a visit to the Skywalk on your priority list of things to do at the Grand Canyon.

What is the Grand Canyon Skywalk?

The Skywalk is a glass walkway that takes you 70 feet away from the rim of the Grand Canyon and 4000 feet above the bottom of the Canyon. It’s a glass bridge, so you have an unobstructed view all the way to the bottom. It is an amazing structure shaped like a horse shoe, that allows you to get an incredible sky view of the Grand Canyon while walking on glass and seeing everything, all the empty space, beneath your feet. It is like being suspended over the Colorado River. Only flying is better. It is the best way to have the most breathtaking view of the vast Grand Canyon in front and around you, from the top of the Rim, but also into the Grand Canyon.

Where is the Grand Canyon Skywalk located?

The Grand Canyon Skywalk is located on the West Rim, at Eagle Point. This is in the Indian Village of the Hualapai Tribe, more precisely, it is called the “Sacred Land of the Hualapai Indians”. The Hualapai Tribe owns this part of the Grand Canyon. Therefore, thought they didn’t built it, they are co-owners of the Skywalk. Here are directions to the Grand Canyon Skywalk from Las Vegas (121 mi) and Kingman (70 mi).

All you need to know about the Grand Canyon Skywalk

The Skywalk is a one-way circuit. 120 persons are allowed on the Skywalk at the same time. You can’t bring anything with you, while you are on the Skywalk. You must leave all your belongings in lockers at the entrance before entering the Skywalk. You are not allowed to bring your camera for security reasons, so nothing get dropped on the glass. But if you want pictures, a photographer is there to take as many as you want and sell them to you!
The price of this attraction is $29.95 ( plus tax) for adults. But you should know that on top of this, you cannot enter the West Rim of the Grand Canyon for free. Like every National Park, you must pay an entrance fee ($40.95). This fee gives you access to the whole West Rim of the Grand Canyon.
You cannot drive to the Skywalk. It is forbidden to drive your own vehicle in the West Rim park. But free parking is available at the West Rim Airport and a Shuttle will bring you to the Skywalk. The Skywalk is open from 7.00 am to 7.00 pm and it can take up to 3 hours to complete your tour, so be patient, it’s worth it. All other questions can be answered here.

Do you dare to not only look over the rim, but step over the edge of the Grand Canyon? Make sure to reserve your pass in advance so you don’t have to wait in line, especially if it’s warm! There is so much to do in the Grand Canyon, don’t waste time trying to get your tickets there. Enjoy the Grand Canyon Skywalk.