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.

Just at the border between Arizona and Nevada is the famous Hoover Dam. Did you know that it is one of the most important constructions on the 20th century, and the second largest concrete structure in the world? Another funny fact people forget is that by just walking across the Hoover Dam, you enter a different time zone! So after or during your visit of Las Vegas or on the way back from the Grand Canyon, stop at the Hoover Dam and  take one of the Hoover Dam Tours.

Hoover Dam Helicopter Tour

The Stars and Stripes Air Tour is a 2 hours tour departing from Boulder City. First you fly over Boulder city, with a quick historic speech about the city. Then the helicopter takes you over the Hoover Dam, and Black Canyon. It’s a great way to get a full sky view of the Hoover Dam and the scenic Black Canyon. If you are staying in Las Vegas, you are picked up and dropped off in front of your hotel. You can also with the Maverick Helicopter tours soar over Lake Mead and enjoy an amazing sky view of the Colorado River before it reaches the grand Canyon.

Into the Hoover Dam Tour

Your not so much interested in engineering? Well forget about that! A Hoover Dam tour into the dam can change your perspective, and is really worth it, whether you’re a science geek or a stay home mom. The Hoover Dam Powerplant Tour is very interesting, and teaches you a lot of interesting facts. During 2 hours you learn all about the construction of the Hoover Dam and how it operates. You really get a full look behind the scenes of Hoover Dam with professionals explaining you everything there is to know about the dam. If you are even interested in a more technical aspect of the dam the Hoover Dam Tour, a longer tour showing you some of the behind the scene operations.

Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour

The Ultimate Hoover Dam Tour is the most complete tour you can find. It gives you the best experience and the deepest insights about the Hoover Dam. You are picked up from your hotel (in Vegas). During the tour the guides go over the full history of the Hoover Dam, with exhibits, a movie, and interesting and astonishing facts about the Hoover Dam! After will visit the inside and outside parts of the Hoover Dam, enjoy your lunch break with a view on the water reservior. You also visit Boulder City for another interesting informative session, and as an additional incentive for the kids, you also visit the Ethel M’s Chocolate factory, and get a little history background on the creator of the Hoover Dam and his relation with the Mafia in Las Vegas! Now that’s a complete tour!

Note: If you drive there, the Arizona side of the Hoover Dam has free parking.

So maybe visiting a dam is not on your bucket list and top interest, but if you are close to the Hoover Dam, it is really worth your time. You cannot pass on such breath taking views. And it is afterall, the most famous Dam in the world, so there must be a good reason… aren’t you curious?

Road Trip on the West Coast

Going on a Road Trip is fun! Rather than staying in just one place, you get to see many different attractions and sights. One of the most popular road trips on the West Coast is the California – Arizona- Nevada – California Road Trip. It leads from LA – San Diego – Grand Canyon – Las Vegas – Yosemite – San Francisco – LA. This trip is a great because of the diversity of the landscape, the various breath taking sigths, and the many different attractions and opportunities you will find along the way. If you want to read more about the things you can do at the different stops that we suggest, just click on the links! Do you want to know more???

The Road Trip

As already indicated, this is a round trip, so you can start anywhere along the way. However, we will start our departure in of the West Coast Road Trip in Los Angeles. Being an important international airport, it is a good place to start. If you want to spend a couple of days in LA, here you can read more about the things to do in Los Angeles!
From LA you leave south toward your first stop, San Diego. Then from San Diego enjoy the drive to the Grand Canyon, Arizona. You can stop at Williams where you will find different organized tours to visit the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. From your second stop you cross the Arizona Desert to the Gambler’s paradise: Las Vegas. After hopefully winning some extra cash for your travel adventure, you can take the shorter way on Freeway40 to Kingman, or take the famous Route 66 from Seligman to Kingman, from where you head North on the 93 toward Las Vegas. From this 3rd stop you head north on the 95 until Beatty and catch the 374 to the 190 to cross Death Valley National Park. Then you can get on the 395 North all the Way to Yosemite National Park. After enjoying the scenic tour of the park, you drive west to San Francisco before finishing with the drive along the Coast to return to Los Angeles.

The Stops you can’t miss!

On your way to San Diego
On your way to San Diego, San Juan Capistrano is a great place to take a break. You can visit the famous Mission San Juan Capistrano and its peaceful gardens. Who knows? You might actually need it after LA traffic! L’Hirondelle is a wonderful place to have lunch especially on their charming patio. In San Diego you have quite a list of things to see and do. In function of the time period in which you are visiting San Diego, certain hotels offer great deals you should check out. Every neighborhood of San Diego has a large choice of cuisine from Thai to Italian, French to Mexican; and great happy hour deals. I would recommend Lei Lounge in University Heights for amazing appetizers and an original cocktails menu!

On your way to the Grand Canyon
This is a 6 to 8 hours drive. Honestly not the most scenic drive you will make, but the destination is well worth it! The best way to get there is trough the 15 until Barstow and get on the 40 there until you reach Kingman. Since the Grand Canyon offers you a lot to see and do, I would recommend doing the drive in one day and spend some more time at the Grand Canyon to take full advantage of the different attractions there instead of stopping along the way.

On you way to Las Vegas
While crossing the desert to get to Vegas, make sure to respect the speed limit… you might think you’re alone… and you are, that’s why the only cop hidden won’t miss you! Before Las Vegas you pass the Hoover Dam. Take a guided tour of the dam, it is an amazing sight and it is one of the most fascinating man-made structures on the West Coast!

On your Way to Yosemite
After a lot of Vegas fun you might need a break on your way to Yosemite. The Stovepipe Wells Village just of the 190 in Death Valley is a simple but great spot to rest. Their restaurant has a nice menu and the staff is very friendly.

On your Way to San Francisco
If you have time, take advantage and visit  Oakland. Eventhough it is close to famous and beautiful San Francisco, this city often gets overlooked by tourists, but there are a lot of fun things to do.

On your Way back to Los Angeles
You follow the coast, most likely drive along the Highway 1. An especially breathtaking scenic drive is the 17 Mile Drive, where you can also see the famous Pebble Beach Golf Course. An amazing scenic drive you cannot miss!!! Of course there is San Jose, San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara along the way. On your way down the cost you are passing by  Hearst Castle. Stop and take an organized tour. You have to see it, just for the architecture alone! As the road is beautiful, but winding, it is a good idea to make a stop along the way. I would recommend Cambria. This town is beautiful, friendly and the Bluebird Inn absolutely charming and all the restaurants are have great food at affordable prices! If you’re hungry on your way to the finish line, the La Super-Rica Tacqueria in Santa Barbara  is a great place to savour authentic Mexican cuisine.

And now you’ve got your Road Trip! A few ideas on dinning, resting and visiting, now you just need to put it all together to fit your needs and expectations and get behind the wheel! Have a fun Road Trip on the West Coast!

The Grand Canyon Hikes

Have you ever started a hike “backwards”? The Grand Canyon Hikes are the best way to try: you start by hiking down and then you have to hike back up to the top! If you can see the Grand Canyon from the top it is amazing, breath taking. But imagine seeing it from the bottom, being surrounded by these humongous cliffs all around you. There is no word to describe it. So are you ready to take the challenge?

Grand Canyon Hikes: Preparation

The Grand Canyon hikes are just not any kind of hikes. You need to be prepared for it, and make sure you choose a Grand Canyon hike according to your abilities. Most hikes are day trips. You can plan your hike with a tour, organized by the diverse companies such as Wildland Trekking Company, Four Season Guides, etc… or you can plan it on your own. However don’t hike alone. To plan you hikes on your own you need to research about it, to make sure you are fit enough for it and know where you are going. Then you need to decide what kind of hikes you want to do: there are day hikes, or longer hikes that can take between 3 to 4 days- such as crossing the Grand Canyon from one rim to the other! That way you know how to plan your resources, what you need to bring and what to expect, more or less. If you plan to camp, then remember you need a permit, and it takes between 6 weeks to 4 month to get it depending the season!!! Also, when you are hiking make sure to plan to bring enough water for your trip. There are water stations available along the most popular routes, but make sure you have enough water with you nonetheless! Do not drink just any water, make sure it is potable water, so bring some water test along!

Grand Canyon Day Hikes

A lot of the easiest day or half day hikes in the Grand Canyon don’t take you down the Canyon, but keep you at the Rim form vista points to vista points, one more amazing than the previous. Cliff Spring Trail lets you walk down a little from the Walhalla Plateau. It takes you to the forested side of the Canyon. You can park at the Cape Royal parking.
The Plateau Point Trail is an amazing walk down to Indian Garden through the Bright Angel Trail, and then to the Colorado River through the Tonto Trail to catch the Plateau Point Trail to the bottom. This is a quite hard hike, but since it is divided in two stops, you can always turn back after visiting Indian Garden, or plan your overnight stay there. This south rim hike is 13 miles round trip. You can park close to the start of the trail.
An even harder than the previous mentioned hike is the Hermit Trail. This hike takes you to San Maria Spring, or if you are willing to go farther, Dripping Springs. You need to plan your water well for that hike. There is a camp to spend the night and rest, if you want to head to the Colorado River (remember you need a permit in advance though).

Grand Canyon Multiple Day Hikes

The North Kaibab Trail is a north rim trail of 28 miles. It takes you down to Cottonwood Campground – the halfway point – and then to Bright Angel Campground where you can then follow the trail down to the Colorado River. This is a quite steep hike and known to be one of the most difficult one. It gets quite warm during the summer. You are therefore recommended to stay on the trail.
For the Rim to Rim hike there are a few things to think about. You need to plan how to get back to your car once on the other side! While the distance through the canyon is quite small, the driving distance is more then 200 miles!  Also, know that if you hike from the North Rim to the South Rim, the hike back up is shorter since the North Rim is more elevated than the South Rim; and the more you walk toward the North Rim, the less civilization you find. In function of the difficulty you are looking for you have a few itinerary available. You start of the North Rim down to the Cottonwood Campground through the North Kaibab Trail. Then your next stop is Bright Angel campground. From the River trail you hike until Indian Gardens Campsite, and finally back up to South Rim. Keep in mind that the facilities at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon are closed from Mid-October to Mid-May!

General Hiking Advice for the Grand Canyon:

• rest often (sit in the shade)
• drink frequently (drink plenty of water and electrolyte drinks)
• do not hike in the heat of the day (10am to 4pm)
• eat often (carbohydrates & salty foods)
• get wet (wet your shirt, hat, & wear a wet bandana around your neck)
• don’t attempt to hike down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon & back in one day

=> About 250 people need to be rescued on the trails of the Grand Canyon every year! Don’t be one of them!!!

Whatever Grand Canyon hikes you plan, remember to be well informed and well prepared. The Grand Canyon is not like any other hike you will take and danger cannot be forgotten. Be careful, stay safe and enjoy the hikes!

5 Grand Canyon Attractions Not To Miss

You are one your way to Arizona to visit the Grand Canyon. Sure walking on the edge of the cliff looking down the Grand Canyon is impressive and grandiose… but the Grand Canyon has so much more to offer! So why not keep reading and find out about the 5 Grand Canyon Attraction you can’t miss?

Grand Canyon Attraction 1: The Skywalk

The number one Grand Canyon attraction you should plan is the Skywalk . On the West Rim of the Canyon, you can walk on a glass bridge and see the Canyon beneath your feet. This is just an amazing experience you don’t want to miss! Make sure to reserve you tickets first.

Grand Canyon Attraction 2: The Train Tour

From Williams you can take the train and let the steam locomotive drag you to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This Grand Canyon attraction is great especially with kids. You get a full historic and entertaining show while enjoying the landscape surrounding you.

Grand Canyon Attraction 3: Ride a Mule!

The next Grand Canyon attraction you can’t miss is to ride down the canyon on a Mule! It takes you down the Canyon, on a mule, and gives you a total different perspective of the Grand Canyon. You have the choice of day trip. Your lunch stop is organized at the Indian Garden. Or you can also decide to go all the way down and stay over night. Make sure to follow the instructions given and to be ready for holding on to that saddle!

Grand Canyon Attraction 4: The Jeep Tour

Safari doesn’t only happen in the jungle! Instead of staying up the rim with everyone, why not take it down the Canyon? The Jeep tours are great off road family adventures. You visit the Grand Canyon from the bottom… and trust me it is as impressive from the top!

Grand Canyon Attraction 5: White Water Rafting

This Grand Canyon attraction is your chance to see the hidden places of the Grand Canyon. Going down the Colorado River in a raft, and your adventure just started: a few hikes and the rapids are waiting for you! Grab you waterproof camera, jump in the raft and get wet! If you plan that White Water Rafting Tour, make sure to get accommodation close by since the Rafting Tour starts early!

Note:
If you like to stay away from the crowd, consider spending more time on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, as the South Rim is the most visited.
If you plan on Camping in the Grand Canyon make sure to make your reservation ahead of time (at least 2 month before your trip, when you travel with an RV even longer). You must obtain a permit to camp outside the campgrounds.

Don’t miss out on the spectacular visit of the Grand Canyon. Plan your trip ahead and make all the reservation for the Grand Canyon Attractions. Be adventurous!

Sequoia National Park by Car

If I say General Sherman, what do you think? Civil War? No! Tree of course! Even though that tree was named after the General Tecumseh Sherman… So now you see where I am going right! I am taking you to the east of California to Sequoia National Park.

What’s to see in Sequoia National Park?

Mount Whitney is the highest point in the California Sierra Nevada. It requires motivation and determination to reach the peak of the highest mountain in the lower 48. The best trail to get to the top is the Mt Whitney Trail. Get there by following the Whitney Portal Road, which brings you directly to the parking at the trail head.

Visit the General Sherman Tree! After all you are visiting the “Land of Giants”, and you can’t avoid stopping and admiring the largest tree of the forest. Be aware though, it is the top-of-list visited place, so you will not be alone there! This tree is in The Giants Forest, the heart of the Park. The Giants Forest offers you many different easy hikes.  You can park at the Giant Forest Village and start your hike there! I recommend the Congress Trail as you can easily park and visit General Sherman on your way. If you are looking for a panoramic view, you should take the Great Grove hike. It is less visited and you will enjoy the scenic views.

Where to stay?
If you are planning a series of hikes and enjoy resting in comfort afterwards, you have many lodging options. The Sequoia National Park gives you the list of accommodations – check for package deals! If you are more nature oriented, you will enjoy spending your nights on one of the many campgrounds. You should make a reservation to assure you get a spot, but some of the campgrounds operate on a first come first serve basis and credit cards are not accepted for payment.

What to be Aware of?
Bears !!!! There are storage food lockers for a reason! Use them, or you might have a not so pleasant visitor! Keep your car safe and make sure to not leave any food in it.
Mountains Lions and Cougars. Even though they are very reclusive, you should know that they are there. Don’t hike alone and keep your children close. Better be safe than sorry!
Don’t litter! Have as little impact on the environment as possible! Take your trash with you and stay on the trails when you go for a hike! In short, respect Nature and keep it clean and green!

Enjoy your stay at the Sequoia National Park! And remember, there are so many other amazing National Parks to visit on the West Coast, why not make it a road trip!

Read more about National Parks here…

Yosemite National Park By Car

California is proud of its picturesque National Park: Yosemite National Park. You most likely know it for its waterfalls and the famous El Capitan. But did you know Yosemite is a very accessible National Park by car?  Many sights are breath taking and worth the trip, and they are easy to drive to and park. Here are the must see sites of Yosemite National Park!

Favorite Hikes in Yosemite National Park

Half Dome
The Half Dome is the most recommended hike in Yosemite by visitors. This day hike is one the most memorable trip you will have. Because of its 14 miles length you want to have an early start, and pack a lot of water! The best place to park is the Curry Village; you will probably enjoy a nice dinner after your hike, and you will be happy to find your car at the right place for this! Get the inside scoop of people who hiked the Half Dome.

Yosemite Falls
Did you know that the Yosemite Falls are the highest falls in all of North America? Even though you can perfectly see them form Yosemite Village, this is can be great day hike. The Yosemite Falls are actually divided in 3 waterfalls; the most visited being the lower falls. They are of course  most beautiful in spring, when the snow is melting and the water rushes to Yosemite Valley. Yosemite Village is the best place to park to start  your hike.

Glacier Point
The Yosemite Glacier Point is a one-in-many sights package! This is a great hike to get a perfect view of the entire park. Due to its elevation this hike is most popular after May. Even though this is another day trip, it is one of the easiest hikes in Yosemite National Park with its own parking lot at the beginning of the trail.

I recommend checking out Yosemitehikes.com for more information about the all the possible hikes. You will also find information on the difficulty of the various hikes and how crowded they are.

Your car in the park
Yosemite is a National Park, which implies wilderness… and this means: Beware of bears! Even though you will be informed about it as soon you set foot in the park, and there are signs everywhere, you should know this is not a joke: Use the bear–proof storage lockers and don’t leave any food in your car. Bears will destroy your car to reach the food, even small snacks like Snicker bars and candy. You should also know, that this will make bears aggressive and they will be shot by the park rangers to ensure the safety of the visitors.

Follow the speed limit. Animals cross the roads frequently, so you must be able to break and let them cross. Respect nature. Keep you eyes on the road, and watch for animals crossing! Driving around in Yosemite National Park is a great scenic drive, but also take advantage of the numerous stop areas and beautiful hikes to enjoy the view, take pictures and stay safe.

Enjoy Yosemite National Park!

Read more about National Parks here…