Tricks For Visiting The Grand Canyon Without A Car, And The Big Reason You Might Want To

The Grand Canyon is one of the most awe-inspiring destinations in the United States, and everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. However, if you do, you might consider leaving your car at home and choosing an alternative mode of transportation to avoid the long wait times during peak tourist season.

The breathtaking canyon is a geological marvel that took millions of years to form through the combination of plateau uplift and erosion from the ancient Colorado River. Today, parts of the Grand Canyon are more than a mile deep and 18 miles wide. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views, and as you venture into the canyon you'll be immersed in nature's beauty and power around every twist and turn in the trails. The canyon is one of the original Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and will be protected forever since it was established as a national park in 1919. In 1979, it also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Grand Canyon is located in northwest Arizona. It's one of the most-visited national parks within the United States and attracts around 6 million tourists each year. The park encompasses well over a million acres, but due to its popularity, it can often become extremely crowded. During peak season, visitors often wait up to two hours in their cars in order to enter. You can avoid the long lines and make the most of your time at the Grand Canyon when you choose alternative modes of transportation.

The Grand Canyon is relatively close to several major cities, including Flagstaff and Phoenix, Arizona, and Las Vegas, Nevada. Most travelers who visit fly into one of the major airports and rent a car to visit the Grand Canyon, but there are plenty of other options. Instead of renting a car and waiting in long lines, consider taking the train or bus as a more sustainable and convenient way to visit.

For an unforgettable experience, consider starting your day in the town of Williams, Arizona, Grand Canyon's gateway town, and hopping on the Grand Canyon Railway. The scenic trip to the Grand Canyon's South Rim takes just over two hours. You'll be able to sit back and relax in the historic train and watch the beautiful desert scenery pass by. You can choose between several ticket types at different price points. For the most opulent experience, book the Luxury Parlor Car, featuring a private bar where you can purchase drinks, and including breakfast in the morning and snacks during your return. You'll also be able to enjoy the views from the open-air platform on the caboose. Round trip tickets cost $239.98. Pullman class tickets are the most budget friendly option for $69.98 round trip. There are also a variety of packages that allow you to stay the night in Williams at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, or in the park at the Grand Canyon Maswik Lodge North.

To reach the Grand Canyon from other major cities, you can take a shuttle bus. Groome Transportation offers shuttles between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon. Grand Canyon Shuttle Service provides transportation from Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Flagstaff.

Getting around the Grand Canyon is easy, even without a vehicle. The Grand Canyon Railway, and most of the shuttles, will drop you off near the Grand Canyon Historic Village District. It's walkable with some shops and historic sites, like El Tovar Hotel, which was built in 1905 and is still open for business today. From town, you can hop on the well-maintained Rim Trail with its gorgeous views of the canyon. The trail is mostly flat, making it a great easy option for most hikers, with some sections that are ADA accessible. The entire path is 13 miles long.

Grand Canyon National Park has a free shuttle bus that will take you to multiple drop-off points around the South Rim, including between lodges, campgrounds, and the visitor center. If you're looking for transportation around the North Rim, the Grand Canyon Lodge Hiker Shuttle operates from May 15 through October 15. The North Rim roads are closed to all vehicles between December 1 and May 14.

Biking is another great way to get around the Grand Canyon. You'll find a bike rental located near the Visitor Center, offering both cruisers and e-bikes. You can rent a bike for as little as one hour or reserve them for multiple days. Prices range from $30 to $95.

There are tons of hikes around the Grand Canyon — you'll find everything from short walks that last an hour to epic multi-day adventures. If you get tired from all the walking, consider riding a mule instead. Mules have been helping travelers get around the Grand Canyon since the 1800s and options range from two hour rides around the Rim to overnight adventures that take you deep into the canyon.