Basic Beginnings

General Information

Lay of the Land

Getting to Flagstaff
Most Flagstaff visitors fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport because it is the closest major international airport to Flagstaff. From there, it’s best to rent a car and drive yourself to Flagstaff via I-17,  which is about a 2.5 hour drive. There are a limited amount of flights from Sky Harbor Airport to Flagstaff Airport available, but that is an option. There are shuttle companies that offer daily scheduled trips for about $38 per person each way, while Amtrak has a train station in heart of town as does Greyhound bus service.

Lodging

Flagstaff experiences an influx of Phoenicians trying to beat the summer heat during the months of July – August. Grand Canyon visitors start coming around in May and keep flowing in all the way through October. Then the snow players take it from there during the months of December – February. This town has plenty of hotels, motels, cabins and bed and breakfasts, but it gets booked pretty quickly on holiday weekends, days following a good snow storm or extra hot days in The Valley.  Making plans in advance is recommended especially if you, your family or travel friends have accommodation preferences. Even the hostels get booked up regularly!

Hotels and Motels

A variety of hotels and motels are available all over greater Flagstaff. You’ll find both familiar brand hotel chains and independent properties. Prices range from $75 – $250 per night in the peak months and $50 to $200+ per night in the off-season.

Cabins
Flagstaff is the perfect place to rent a cabin. Flagstaff’s four season weather makes it inviting year round. Cool off  and relax in a summer cabin surrounded by wildflowers with picturesque mountains in the distance. Better yet, stay warm by a crackling fire with a cup of hot cocoa after a day of skiing or sledding in the winter wonderland. Cabins tend to be visitors’ first choice in Flagstaff lodging, so book early if possible.

Bed & Breakfasts

Flagstaff’s charming mountain home atmosphere makes it a perfect place to enjoy staying at a bed and breakfast. Rates vary widely based on the size, amenities offered and demand for these charming inns, but you’ll find anything from $125 per night to $350 per night, based on the season and the style, from simple to luxurious.

Pet-Friendly
Flagstaff is certainly pet-friendly. Several Flagstaff bed & breakfasts, inns, cabins and hotels cater to four-legged family members. Check out this list of dog friendly hotels in Flagstaff, which may or may not be complete, so don’t be afraid to call your hotel or bed & breakfast and ask if Spike or Fluffy can come along.

Dining

How to See Flagstaff…

“Is everyone here young and cool? Even that old man with a white beard acts like he’s 35.” – overheard at Charly’s Pub at the Weatherford Hotel

It’s true. Flagstaff tends to attract people who are looking for adventure. The vibrant spirit often appears as being young at heart – and it’s everywhere. It can’t be helped. From hiking, snowboarding and rock-climbing to Grand Canyon helicopter tours and Colorado River rafting, it all starts in Flagstaff. How do you want to see Flagstaff?

…on a Bicycle Ride Around Town

If you’re planning on staying in town, a bicycle is the perfect way to get around Downtown Flagstaff. That’s what the locals do! There are bike racks everywhere and nothing is far enough to actually need to hop in a car to get to.  In fact, finding a spot to part a vehicle can be quite the chore in this part of town. Rent a bike. You’ll be able to see, experience and interact with more  of everything, guaranteed. There are people from all over the world and all walks of life in the mountain town that you won’t want to miss.

…on a Guided Tour

You won’t want to miss a guided tour of Lowell Observatory. This was where the once so-called planet, Pluto, was discovered. Flagstaff’s fresh mountain air and clear skies make it a wonderful place to explore the Beyond. Other guided tours include the Museum of Northern Arizona, which features a wealth of geological and cultural information about the Southwest; then there is the Riordan Mansion State Historic Park, a five-acre park showcasing an extraordinary early 1900s mansion owned by the Riordan family who logged Flagstaff in the city it is today.

Other tours that depart from Flagstaff are tours to the Grand Canyon. Many tours to the Grand Canyon leave from Flagstaff since it is the biggest city near the canyon. Visitors often take helicopter tours, jeep tours, bus tours, river trips or guided hikes. See Flagstaff.com‘s tour guide to get more information and pricing.

…On Foot (Hiking)

Flagstaff offers both easy and challenging hiking, and the reward for those willing to make the effort is a chance to marvel at the beauty of Flagstaff from above,

• Must-Do – Humphrey’s Peak

Humphrey’s is located 14.5 miles northwest to Flagstaff, Arizona. Take US 180 north for 7 miles, then Snowbowl Road (FR 516) for 7.4 miles to the Snowbowl lower parking lot. Find the Humphrey’s trailhead at the north end of the parking lot. All roads are paved.The trail is very well marked until you reach the saddle. The first 3 miles the trail gradually climbs the mountain, then the last 1 3/4 miles it gets steeper and more difficult. There are posts added on the last 3/4 of a mile to help mark the trail. It is very rocky and loose above 12,000 feet. The trail ascends 3 false summits before reaching the true summit. The trail is moderate to difficult, but anybody in some sort of shape can make it without consideration to elevation sickness. Total mileage is approximately 4 3/4 miles.

Trail Length:4.5 miles one way.
Elevation Range: 9,300 to 12,633 feet.
Elevation Gain: 3,333 feet.
Summit Peak: 12,633 feet.
Trail Rating: Strenuous.
Hiking Time: 3 hours one way.
Hiking Season: Late spring to fall.
Winter Permits: Required
Camping:No camping above tree line.

• Local Favorite – Mt. Elden Trails

The summit of Mt. Elden is a 9,299-foot peak on the north edge of Flagstaff. You can hike any of several good trails or drive up a rough road. Wildflowers, a variety of forests, and panoramic views reward those who ascend even part way. A fire-lookout tower marks the summit. Climb the tower, if it’s open, for the best views. On a clear day you’ll see much of north-central Arizona: Oak Creek Canyon and Mormon Lake to the south; the Painted Desert to the east; Humphrey’s Peak, Sunset Crater, and other volcanoes to the north; and Bill Williams Mountain to the west. Flagstaff lies directly below. An eruption of thick, sticky lava created Mt. Elden.
The hiking season runs from May to October, a bit longer for the drier eastern slope. You’ll need to carry water.  Allow at least half a day for a hike to the summit and back; elevation change is 1,300–2,400 feet, depending on the trailhead. Horseback riders and mountain bicyclists can use most of the trail system.

Rating: Moderate
Distance: 2.5 – 3.5 miles
Map and Information: Mt. Elden Trail Guide

 …On a Wall (Rock Climbing)

The Pit (Le Petit Verdon) is one of Flagstaff’s most accessible rock climbing areas for people of all skill levels. Most of the routes are sport but there are a handful of trad routes.

Take I-17 towards Flagstaff. Take the Lake Mary Road Exit. Turn right onto Lake Mary Road, then follow this road approximately 6 miles down. On your left, you will see “Canyon Vista” campground. This is where we are camped at the trailhead to the Pit. Park in the parking lot, trail starts at the end. Go down the small trail, take a right at the fork. You can see the crag from the parking lot and trail. Follow the trail to the other side, there you will see the bolts and pitches.

Flagstaff Temperatures and Precipitation:

Flagstaff receives an average annual snowfall of 99.5 inches
based on the 1st day of each month

Flagstaff Average Clear, Partly Cloudy and Cloudy Days by Month Annual Total

So, there you go! That’s our primer all the basics of visiting Flagstaff. Did we leave anything out? What else would you like to know? Feel fee to comment and we will reply!

Photo credit: CEBImagery.com on Flickr | CC 2.0

Today, we’re proud to present the second installment of a series we call Back(pack) to Basics with a general guide to Sedona, Arizona. We’ve included everything you need to know about visiting Sedona in a lightweight, easy-to-carry guide you can stuff in your “backpack” of travel resources and this year, visit the place USA Today hailed as The Most Beautiful Place in America.

General Information

Lay of the Land

Getting to Sedona
Most Sedona visitors fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport because it is the closest major international airport to Sedona. From there, it’s best to rent a car and drive yourself to Sedona via I-17 to Highway 179 (exit 298) which is about a 2 hour drive. There are several Phoenix to Sedona shuttle companies offering daily scheduled trips for about $90 – $140 per person round trip.

Lodging

The peak seasons in Sedona, when lodging is at a premium and rates escalate, are January 1 – April 15 and September 15 – November 30. You’ll find the best bargains in the summer months and December, both of which are still fantastic times to visit Sedona. The average length of stay in Sedona is about 2.3 nights; you can see most of the sights in two days, but smart visitors will take advantage of many hotels’ “extra night free” programs, making Sedona their home base for additional day-ventures to the nearby Grand Canyon, Flagstaff and Verde Valley. You can find all the great lodging we describe on our guide to Sedona hotels, resorts and lodging, Sedona.net.

Hotels and Motels

A variety of hotels and motels are available all over greater Sedona. You’ll find both familiar brand hotel chains and independent properties. Prices range from $90 – $250 per night in the peak months and $70 to $200+ per night in the off-season.

Resorts & Spas

Sedona is home to some of the most world-renowned resorts and spas in the country. Indulge in a spa vacation or luxury creekside retreat, perfect for couples, honeymooners, girlfriends’ getaways and individuals (go ahead, you deserve it!) Rates range from $200 – $400 per night in the peak months and $130 to $200 per night (and up to $300 per night for the most upscale resorts) in the off-season.

Bed & Breakfasts

Boasting over 17 unique bed & breakfasts, Sedona is a haven for Europhiles who love the personal touch of a bed & breakfast. Innkeepers of these Sedona gems attract guests with uniquely decorated guestrooms, gourmet breakfasts, personal concierge service, and significant overall value. Whether you’re seeking romance and privacy, sightseeing guidance from an expert Sedona insider, or simply a one-of-a-kind accommodation you’ll remember and recommend for years to come, these bed & breakfasts are certain to fit the bill. Rates vary widely based on the size, amenities offered and demand for these charming inns, but you’ll find anything from $150 per night to $500 per night, based on the season and the style, from simple to luxurious.

Pet-Friendly
Sedona is pet-friendly. Several Sedona bed & breakfasts, inns and Sedona hotels cater to four-legged guests. Check out this list of dog friendly hotels in Sedona, which may or may not be complete, so don’t be afraid to call your hotel or bed & breakfast and ask if Spike or Fluffy can come along.

A pet friendly Sedona vacation goes beyond accommodations; check out these suggestions for Sedona pet friendly activities and restaurants that don’t just accept pets, they cater to them.

Dining

How to See Sedona…

There are many scenic viewpoints accessible by car that offer spectacular views of the red rocks of Sedona, BUT first be sure to pick up a Red Rock Pass ($5/day, $15/week) at one of many commercial vendors (stores, gas stations, hotels, etc.,) government offices and self-serve machines throughout the area. (Where to buy) A Red Rock Pass allows you to park, hike, picnic, and take photos on Coconino National Forest land.

…on a Guided Tour

Likely the most popular way to see Sedona, a Jeep tour from any one of nearly a dozen expert companies is a great way to see some of Sedona’s most breathtaking views, discover the backcountry, learn about Sedona’s history, geology and ecology, and bond with friends, family and other visitors. It’s also an ideal way for multi-generational groups to see Sedona together; a Jeep tour is exciting, yet safe, for kids and grandparents, teens and adults alike.

That’s not to say that a tour by Jeep is the only way to see Sedona from a different point of view. You may opt for other guided tours such as van tours; horseback riding; wine tasting tours; river rafting and kayaking adventures; railway tours; hot air balloon, helicopter and airplane tours; or guided vortex hikes. Every one of these tours satisfies a different interest, taste, ability and budget. And whether you’re seeing Sedona from the back of a horse, or down on Oak Creek, or high above the red rocks, each one of these tours changes your vantage point, so even if this is a return trip to Sedona, you can see it in a whole new light. Find a tour that’s right for you on our guide to Sedona tours, Sedona.net.

…on a Self-Guided Driving Tour

The following are loosely listed in order of how you might encounter them on a driving tour of Sedona, starting in the Village of Oak Creek off Hwy 179 and continuing to the “Y” at Hwy 89A, heading west and then doubling back along Hwy 179 toward Uptown Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon along Hwy 89A. Many include easy to advanced hiking in order to reach the best viewpoints, but several can be viewed from a parking lot or on the side of the road (be careful parking roadside; traffic in Sedona can be very busy.)

You can start this self-guided tour at any of the points below and simply go back to the top of the list and work your way down. Since most Sedona visitors begin their visit by entering the area from the south, (from Phoenix, off I-17) we’re starting our list there.

1. From the Village of Oak Creek on Highway 179, where you can pull into the Coconino National Forest parking lot for the Bell Rock Pathway to view Bell Rock and Cathedral Butte. This turnoff on the east side of the road is about 1.1 miles north of the National Forest’s South Gateway Visitors Center.

2. Return to Highway 179 and head north 2.8 miles to Back O’ Beyond Road, turning west off the Highway and see spectacular Cathedral Rock.

3. Return to Highway 179 and continue north 0.5 miles to Chapel Road, then 0.8 miles east on Chapel Road up the hill to the famous Chapel of the Holy Cross.

4. Continue on Highway 179 and go to the “Y” at the junction of Highway 179 and Highway 89A. You’re now in Uptown Sedona.

5. From Highway 179, take Schnebly Hill Road. This 38 mile winding and picturesque route ultimately ends at an intersection with Interstate 17. You may choose to go the entire way or turn around and head back down to Highway 179 – it’s up to you. (If you do go all the way up to Interstate 17 and want to come down a different way, you can either go south 38 miles to exit 298 and come back up to Sedona through the Village of Oak Creek on Highway 179, or head north on the 17 and come down Oak Creek Canyon 27 miles on Highway 89A.)

6. Back at the divergence of Highway 179 and Schnebly Hill Road, continue around the world-famous Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Shopping District and follow to the “Y,” a traffic circle at the intersection of Highway 179 and Highway 89A. An exit to the right of the Y will take you to Uptown Sedona, where you’ll find shops, hotels, galleries and restaurants with public free parking lots and on-street parking. Best to get out and stroll a while here… there’s too much to see from your car windows!

7. Leave Uptown and head west on Highway 89A 1.1 mile, turning south on Airport Road (keep your eyes out… there is no traffic light here.) A short, steep climb up the hill to Airport Mesa, home of one of Sedona’s vortex spots and perhaps the most popular scenic viewpoint at sunrise and sunset.

8. Return to Highway 89A and head through West Sedona where you’ll find more shops, dining, hotels and galleries. From Airport Road, travel 2 miles west to Dry Creek Road at which you make a right and head north up Boynton Canyon. Boynton Canyon is one of the most scenic of the box canyons that make Arizona Red Rock Country so famous. Boynton Canyon is also home to the renowned Enchantment Resort.

9. Back out on Highway 89A to the west 1.1 miles is Upper Red Rock Loop Road. Red Rock Loop, aptly named, creates a complete loop that passes through Red Rock State Park, one of Sedona’s most popular hiking, picnicing and photography spots. From here, many iconic photos of the view from Red Rock Crossing to Cathedral Rock have been taken.

10. Complete the loop on Lower Red Rock Loop and return to Highway 89A. From here, your trip doubles back 5.5 miles toward Uptown Sedona, and continues up Oak Creek Canyon. You’ll pass Midgley Bridge and Indian Gardens, both great places to stop and take photos. (If traveling north to south, you’ll enter Uptown Sedona about 7.1 miles from Slide Rock.)

11. Just 7.1 miles from Uptown Sedona is Oak Creek Canyon’s most popular attraction, Slide Rock State Park. With easy walking trails, wading in the creek and a natural waterslide, this park is open year-round but is most popular (read: crowded) in the summer months with visitors and families looking for some cool, natural water play. (If traveling north to south, look for West Fork about 2.8 miles from West Fork .)

12. Another 2.8 miles up Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A will take you to the trailhead for the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon Trail, an easy 3-mile and extremely popular day hike. (If traveling north to south, look for West Fork about 6 miles from the Oak Creek Vista .)

13. Nearly 6 miles of winding switchbacks up Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A is the Oak Creek Canyon Vista. Look for a well-marked and ample parking lot on the east side of the highway. Don’t miss this opportunity to stretch your legs and view Oak Creek Canyon from its apex as it runs south. Breathtaking year-round, it’s a signt to behold in winter, fall, summer or spring. (If returning from I-17 in the north, the turnoff is about 8.3 miles down the canyon.)

14. From here, you can either turn around and head back down Oak Creek Canyon on Highway 89A south or continue 6.4 miles to the junction of 89A and Interstate 17. If you continue north toward Flagstaff and the I-17, you can either take I-17 south to Schnebly Hill Road or the full 38 miles to exit 298 and return to your starting point in the Village of Oak Creek.

…Through the Lens (Photography)

For viewing and photographing Sedona, the light is most dramatic early or late in the day; mid-day sun tends to flatten the view and soften the colors. Remember that days are short in the winter and long in the summer. Times for sunrise and sunset are listed below along with our Sedona weather tables.

…On Foot (Hiking)

Sedona offers both easy and challenging hiking, and the reward for those willing to make the effort is a chance to marvel at the beauty of Sedona unfolding below.

Best Easy Hike – West Fork Trail

West Fork of Oak Creek Trail is probably the most popular hikes in Sedona because it’s an easy hike and offers something new and uniquely beautiful every season of the year. Though easy, the trail does cross the creek in a number of places, so be prepared to walk across stepping stones or through some shallow water.

Rating: Easy
Distance: 3 miles
Time: 2 – 3 hours round trip
Map and Information: Coconino National Forest Service

Best Moderate Hike – Brins Mesa Trail

A convenient and picturesque trail, Brins Mesa leads hikers out into the open to delight in unobstructed views of spectacular red rock formations. Start your hike at the trailhead located about a mile from Highway 89A on Jordan Road in Uptown Sedona. Brins Mesa can be hot in the summer, so be prepared with plenty of sunscreen and water, as you would with all hikes. Turn around at the edge of Brins Mesa to return to the trailhead. If you have two cars, park one at the Jordan Road end and one at the Soldier Pass trailhead and do the whole trail one way.

Rating: Moderate
Distance: 3 miles – 4.1 miles
Time: 1 hour
Map and Information: Coconino National Forest Service

Best Difficult Hike – Schnebly Hill Trail plus Munds Mountain Trail

Schnebly Hill Trail features a moderate and steady climb toward several overlooks offering great views of Munds Mountain, Bear Wallow Canyon and the red rock formations beyond. With simple signage, it’s easy to continue onto Munds Mountain Trail, a steep, switchback ascent, climbing 500 feet in just over .5 mile. You’ll be rewarded by fine views over Jacks Canyon and the rim country all the way to the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff. Turn around where the trail flattens out as it emerges on the broad, open, flat expanse of the mountain top.

Rating: Difficult
Distance: 6.2 miles
Time: 4 hours
Map and Information: Coconino National Forest Service

Sedona Weather: Temperatures, Precipitation and Sunrise/Sunset Times

Sedona Temperatures and Precipitation:

Sedona Sunrise, Sunset Times and Length of Days:
based on the 1st day of each month

So, there you go! That’s our primer all the basics of visiting Sedona. Did we leave anything out? What else would you like to know? Feel fee to comment and we will reply!

Dear Arizona Travel:

I am planning to visit the US in late summer this year and would like to ask where to get some hiking maps of the Flagstaff surrounding area.

Sincerely,
Meinhard

Good day, Meinhard.

• Here is a great resource from which to order National Forest Service hiking maps.
• Also helpful are the trails noted by Arizona Snowbowl, the local ski resort.
• Try Kendrick Mountain Trail; here is a Kendrick trail map and a link to a post and photo gallery my Arizona Travel co-blogger, Chrissy, wrote about her personal experience hiking Kendrick Mountain Trail.

I wish you good, safe hiking! Enjoy.

– ChristinaToo

Today, we kick off a series we’re calling Back(pack) to Basics series with a general guide to the Grand Canyon. We’ll answer all the basic questions about visiting the Grand Canyon in a lightweight, easy-to-carry guide you can stuff in your “backpack” of web resources and maybe even visit this Natural Wonder of the World this summer.

Simple Starters

Grand Canyon National Park is located entirely in northern Arizona near the southern border of Utah and the southeastern tip of Nevada.

Most visitors come to the South Rim (open all year). The North Rim (open mid-May through mid October only) has fewer facilities and is less accessible (it is over 200 miles one way by automobile from the South Rim to the North Rim, a 5-hour drive for most). When making reservations for lodging and camping remember to identify the rim you plan on visiting.

• Bring an extra set of car keys it could be a long wait for a locksmith.
• Film is available at both rims, but the closest camera repair is in Flagstaff, Williams, or Page.
• There is an automobile mechanic on the South Rim, but you may experience delays waiting for parts.
• Distances are deceiving in this part of the country: it may look like you can visit three parks in one day, but reality is often different.
• Keep your gas tank full the next gas station may be quite some distance down the road.
• Carry water in your car, particularly during summer months.
• Cell phone service is very limited, if at all available, inside the Park.

General Information

Pets
Pets are allowed in the park but must be on a leash at all times. Leashed pets are allowed on rim trails throughout the developed areas in the park but not below the rim, in park lodging or on park buses. The only exception is certified service dogs. Persons wishing to take a certified service dog below the rim must check in first at the Ranger Office (at the corner of Center Road and Village Loop Drive.)

A kennel is available at the South Rim only. It is open daily from 7:30am – 5pm. Call (928) 638-0534 for information. Reservations are suggested.

Fishing
Fishing in the park requires an Arizona state fishing license. Licenses are available at the Camping Department of the DNPS General Store at Market Plaza, Grand Canyon Village, South Rim. They are not available at the North Rim. Make sure you know the regulations before you fish.

The best time of year to fish for trout within the park is in the fall and winter. Bright Angel Creek by Phantom Ranch permits unlimited trout fishing; unlimited striped bass; unlimited catfish. Trout taken at Bright Angel Creek shall be killed and retained as part of the bag limit or immediately released.

Ranger-led Programs
National Park Service (NPS) rangers offer a wide variety of interpretive programs throughout the year on the South Rim, including a nightly evening program (indoors in colder weather, outdoors in summer) and throughout the season on the North Rim. All NPS programs are free and open to the public. Detailed program information is listed in the park’s newspaper available at the entrance station.

Bus & Air Tours
Persons wishing to take a guided bus tour should visit our Grand Canyon Tours by Land: Hike, Ride, Rail, Walk. A variety of different tours are available throughout the year.

All scenic air tours operate from outside Grand Canyon National Park. Local commercial air tour operators are located in Grand Canyon Airport (just south of Tusayan). For a list of air tour operators, visit our Grand Canyon Helicopter & Air Tours page.

Bicycling
Bicycles are not available for rent in the park. If you plan to bring one, remember that in Arizona bicycles are subject to the same traffic rules as automobiles. Use extreme caution when riding on park roads; shoulders are narrow and vehicle traffic is heavy. The West Rim Drive is open to bicycles throughout the year, but remember that during the summer months there is heavy bus traffic on the West Rim Drive. Use caution and do not obstruct traffic. Bicycles are not allowed on any park trails.

Mountain bikes are allowed only on those roads open to automobile traffic.

Shuttle Transportation
From March 13 to October 18 the park operates a free shuttle bus system on the South Rim in Grand Canyon Village and along the West Rim Drive. These shuttles provide transportation; they are not tour buses. You must get off the bus to see the canyon. Most shuttles are inaccessible to wheelchairs. However, accommodations can be made with advance notice by calling 928-638-0591 at least 24 hours in advance.

Shuttle service is provided seasonally between the North Rim and the South Rim for a fee by Trans Canyon Shuttle (928-638-2820). Shuttles depart the North Rim daily at 7 a.m. with arrivals to the South Rim at noon; South Rim departures are at 1:30 p.m. daily with arrivals to the North Rim at 6:30 p.m.

Medical Services in the Park
The South Rim has a clinic and pharmacy (928-638-2551) open all year. Emergency medical services are provided by rangers and clinic staff – dial 9-1-1. North Rim emergency medical services are provided by rangers on duty – dial 9-1-1.

Accessibility
Not all park facilities meet the accessibility standards that have been set in recent years, and many of the buildings in the park are historic. However, many facilities are accessible with assistance, and an increasing number of facilities are accessible. Accessibility Guide may be downloaded here.

Lodging
In-Park

Lodging on the South Rim is booked well in advance. Be sure to make reservations as far ahead as possible. A variety of lodging facilities are available and reservations are handled by Xanterra Parks & Resorts. Prices range from $45 to $285 per night for two people. There is no youth hostel in Grand Canyon National Park.

Out-of-Park
The following accommodations are available in Tusayan, 7 miles south of the South Rim. More details about these hotels can be found on our South Rim Lodging page

Camping
In-Park
Camping in the park on the South Rim is restricted to established campgrounds, although a few remote sites are available with a Backcountry permit.

Mather Campground: Operated by the National Park Service and located in Grand Canyon Village, this campground offers tent and RV camping (no hook-ups). Reservations are required from April 1 through November. For online reservations, visit http://reservations.nps.gov. Fees are $12 to $15 per site depending on the season. Maximum of two vehicles and six people per site. Sites may be reserved up to five months in advance. Campsite reservations are booked well in advance; make reservations as far in advance as you can. Mather Campground is handled on a first-come, first-served basis from approximately December 1 to March 1 of each year. Cost: $10 per site.

Trailer Village: (adjacent to Mather Campground) offers RV sites with hook-ups; reservations may be made by calling 303-297-2757. Cost: $20 per site. A dump station is located adjacent to Mather Campground and Trailer Village on the South Rim (closed during the winter months).

Desert View Campground: (26 miles east of Grand Canyon Village; no hook-ups) is open mid-May through mid-October and operates on a first-come, first-served basis only. Cost: $12 per site (maximum of 2 vehicles and 6 people per site).

Out-of-Park
Ten-X Campground: The U.S. Forest Service operates this public campground 2 miles south of Tusayan. Open May through September. No hook-ups or showers; pit toilets and cold water faucets are located throughout the campground. Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and rarely fills. Cost: $10 per vehicle per night (maximum of two vehicles per site). Group site is available for groups of up to 100 people, reservations required. Call 520-638-2443.

Dispersed Camping: Dispersed camping, or camping “at-large” is permitted in the national forest outside the park. Camping must be at least 1/4 mile away from Highway 64. Other restrictions may apply. Contact the Tusayan Ranger District, Kaibab National Forest, P.O. Box 3088, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 or call 520-638-2443 for information.

Services

A variety of services are available in Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim and in Tusayan, 7 miles south of the rim.

Dining
A wide variety of restaurants are available in the park from formal El Tovar Hotel to cafeterias at Yavapai and Maswik Lodges. Tusayan offers both fast food and more formal dining.

Fuel
Gas, diesel, and propane are available at Desert View, in Tusayan, and just outside the south entrance.

Showers and Laundry
Located adjacent to Mather Campground in Grand Canyon Village and in Tusayan.

Groceries
Available in Grand Canyon Village, at Desert View, and in Tusayan.

Camping Equipment
Sales and rentals in the Grand Canyon Village. Other: Post office, Western Union office, bank, automatic teller machine (ATM).

Park Headquarters & Visitor Center

The main park Visitor Center and Headquarters building is located on the South Rim at the east end of Grand Canyon Village, 6 miles from the South Entrance Station, and is open all year. Other visitor contact stations open year-round with exhibits, ranger staff, and/or bookstore operations include Tusayan Museum, Desert View, and Yavapai Observation Station. North Rim Visitor Center is open during the summer months.

How to See the Canyon

There are many overlooks accessible by car that offer spectacular views of the canyon. The East Rim Drive (Highway 64) follows the canyon rim for 26 miles east of Grand Canyon Village to Desert View (the east entrance to the park). The East Rim Drive is open to private vehicles throughout the year. The West Rim Drive follows the rim for 8 miles west from Grand Canyon Village to Hermits Rest. The West Rim Drive is closed to private automobiles from mid-March through mid-October. At that time of year the park runs a free shuttle bus to provide transportation to overlooks on the West Rim Drive.

A hiking trail follows the rim from Yavapai Point to Hermits Rest; the Rim Trail is paved from Yavapai Point west only as far as Maricopa Point. Unpaved portions of the trail are narrow and close to the edge.

Yavapai Observation Station (at Yavapai Point, just west of Mather Point on the South Rim) offers panoramic views of the canyon (including the Colorado River and Phantom Ranch) from inside the building and is open all year.

For viewing and photographing the canyon, the light is most dramatic early or late in the day; mid-day sun tends to flatten the view and soften the colors. Remember that days are short in the winter and long in the summer. Times for sunrise and sunset are listed in THE GUIDE, the park newspaper issued at the park entrance. If you’re planning to see the canyon at sunrise or sunset, it is recommended that you be on the rim at least an hour beforehand.

The Colorado River, which is responsible for the existence of Grand Canyon, lies at the bottom of the canyon, 5000 feet below the rim. Because of the enormous depth of Grand Canyon, the river is visible only from certain viewpoints. It is a two-day (round-trip) hike to the river from the South Rim for most people; it’s a longer trip from the North Rim. It is possible to drive to the Colorado River at Lees Ferry (near Marble Canyon, Arizona) but this is a 2 1/2 hour drive (one way) from the South Rim. Lees Ferry marks the official beginning of Grand Canyon, and the canyon is only a few hundred feet deep at this point.

Hiking and Backpacking

Grand Canyon offers some of the most challenging hiking and backpacking found anywhere in North America. Steep trails, intense heat, fast changing weather, and elusive water and shade combine to make for harsh conditions–even on a good day. Over 250 visitors are evacuated from the Canyon for medical emergencies by the park service Search and Rescue team each year. Proper planning and training is imperative.

With few exceptions the 1.2 million acre national park is fair game for foot traffic. Due to the difficult terrain the vast majority of the backcountry is only accessible by experienced off-trail hikers or uphill forays from rafting trips. To assist the rest of us there are approximately two dozen established trails that provide access to some of the park’s most remarkable destinations.

These trails begin on the North or South Rim and eventually make their way to the rock bottom of the Canyon a vertical mile below. The trails vary in length and difficulty. A backcountry permit is required for all overnight camping in the park. Find out more about securing a permit by following this link http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/backcountry.htm

Day hikers are not required to obtain a permit from the park service. They should choose their route carefully, and let someone know where they are going and when they plan on returning. Each year several day hikers become lost or disoriented in the Canyon, and several perish as a result. Don’t become a statistic. Do your homework, don’t take any undue risks, and stay well within your known limits in terms of physical exertion.

Best Day Hike

Bright Angel Trail
The best day hike for newcomers to the Grand Canyon is a descent of the Bright Angel Trail. This historic trail begins in Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim and tumbles seven miles to the Colorado River below. However, going to the river and back in a single day is strongly discouraged for any hiker on any day. The good news is that there are obvious places to change course and head back uphill including the rest houses (with treated drinking water during the hot summer months) that are found at 1.5 mile increments between the top and Indian Garden Campground which is half the distance to the bottom. Plan for twice as much time and effort to go up than it takes to go down.

As with all day hikes, get a reliable weather forecast and dress accordingly, wear sturdy shoes and a brimmed hat, and take a few quarts of water and salty snacks for each person in your party. All this same advice follows for the best day hike on the North Rim that can be found on the precipitous North Kaibab Trail.

Best Backpacking Destinations

Bright Angel Campground &Amp; Indian Garden Campground
For first-time backpackers in Grand Canyon National Park the most popular itinerary is to spend a few nights at either Bright Angel or Indian Garden Campground. The Bright Angel Campground can be accessed by either the Bright Angel or the South Kaibab Trail (off the South Rim); Indian Garden by the Bright Angel Trail. Advance campground reservations are recommended.

Both campgrounds have restrooms, treated drinking water, established campsites, individual food storage canisters (to thwart the critters), and are frequently staffed by helpful park rangers. Packing correctly will make or break your experience. For a list of backpacking gear follow this link http://www.hitthetrail.com/equipment.php

Once you’ve mastered the “easier” trails in Grand Canyon you can graduate to the next tier of more remote trails in the Hermit and Grandview Trails (South Rim). Also popular is Havasu Canyon including the waterfalls at Havasupai and Mooney Falls.

Havasupai And Mooney Falls
Havasu Canyon, home to the Havasupai Indians, is a paradise located in western Grand Canyon known worldwide for its towering waterfalls and beautifully sculpted rock. In this idyllic setting of lush side canyons and sun-splashed cliffs a small group of indigenous hunters and farmers arrived centuries ago and carved out a simple lifestyle; one that continues to this day.

Havasu Creek, the carver of this serpentine side canyon beneath the South Rim, is fed by a deep aquifer. The perennial desert stream tumbles over several major waterfalls on its journey to the Colorado River on the floor of the Grand Canyon. The presence of calcium carbonate in the highly mineralized, spring-fed water gives Havasu Creek its distinctive blue-green color. This same robust creek sustains a rich riparian ecosystem that is home to a wide variety of plants, birds, and animals.

Though many Supai tribal members continue to farm in this flood-prone drainage, tourism has emerged as the tribe’s primary source of income. Fee-based camping is offered year round. In addition to backpackers, visitors arrive by helicopter and horseback, some staying in the tribe’s rustic lodge. Camping in Havasu Canyon requires an permit that can be obtained directly from the tribe. For more information on visiting Havasu Canyon follow this link http://www.havasupaitribe.com.

The South Rim

Rim Trail
Begin from any viewpoint in the Grand Canyon Village or along Hermit Road. The Rim Trail extends from Mather Point in the Village west to Hermits Rest. It offers excellent walking for quiet views of the inner canyon and for visitors who desire an easy hike.

Bright Angel Trail
The trail begins just west of Bright Angel Lodge. It is well-maintained and follows switchbacks to the Indian Garden Campground and Inner Gorge. After Indian Garden, the trail heads east along the river to the Bright Angel Suspension Bridge and on to Phantom Ranch. The roundtrip length of the Bright Angel Trail is 19 miles and descends 4,400 feet.

South Kaibab Trail
This trail begins south of Yaki Point on Yaki Point Road. It is 12.6 miles roundtrip and is steep, dropping 5,000 feet in 6.3 miles. The trail follows ridge lines rather than side canyons. It goes to the Inner Gorge where it meets with the Kaibab Suspension Bridge on the way to Phantom Ranch.

Grandview Trail
Caution is required as this trail is unmaintained, steep, and very strenuous. It begins at Grandview Point on Desert View Drive 12 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. The 6 mile roundtrip trail descends to Horseshoe Mesa.

Hermit Trail
Hermit Trail begins 500 feet west of Hermits Rest which is 8 miles west of Grand Canyon Village. It is unmaintained, steep, and very strenuous. The 17 mile roundtrip leads from the canyon rim to the Colorado River. Sights include Hermit Gorge, The Supai Formation, Santa Maria Spring, and the Redwall Formation.

The North Rim

Widforss Trail
The trail can be reach by leaving Grand Canyon Lodge and going 2.7 miles north on the highway, then turn left one mile on a dirt road; the turnoff is 0.3 mile south of the Cape Royal turnoff. This is a relatively easy hike with great canyon views. It skirts the head of Transept Canyon and across a plateau with ponderosa pine to an overlook near Widforss Point. Below the trail’s end is Haunted Canyon flanked by the Colorado River on the right and Many Temple and Budda Temple on the left. The trail is 10 miles roundtrip and is frequented by mule deer.

Ken Patrick Trail
The 19.8 roundtrip trail starts at Point Imperial and goes along the rim to Cape Royal Road. Then it continues through forest to the North Kaibab trailhead. Great hiking through the forest with views across the headwaters of Nankoweap Creek.

Uncle Jim Trail
The first mile of the trail is along the Ken Patrick Trail and then breaks off to Uncle Jim Point. It is 5 miles roundtrip and has views of Roaring Springs Canyon and North Kaibab Trail.

For further reading you may want to purchase the Official Guide to Hiking the Grand Canyon which features all the Grand Canyon trails as well as giving tips on packing, permitting, and safety. This book is published by the Grand Canyon Association (GCA) and can be purchased online at http://www.grandcanyon.org. For a guided backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon consider joining an educational outing with the GCA’s field seminar program, the Grand Canyon Field Institute (a link available on the GCA homepage). There are also numerous commercial guiding companies that can be hired for backpacking or day hiking. Find them on this site under Grand Canyon Tours & Things to Do and Grand Canyon Tours By Land: Hike, Ride, Rail, Walk.

On a final note, please remember that the Inner Canyon is a fragile desert ecosystem, and that the desert “grows by the inch and dies by the foot.” A single careless boot print off the trail can last for decades in such an environment. Be sure to tread lightly, and leave the Canyon the way you found it. For more on Leave No Trace hiking and backpacking follow this link http://lnt.org/programs/

Grand Canyon Weather, Temperatures and Precipitation

Grand Canyon South Rim Weather:

Grand Canyon West Rim Weather:

So, there you go! That’s our primer all the basics of visiting the Grand Canyon. Did we leave anything out? What else would you like to know? Feel fee to comment and we will reply!

photo credit: Doug Paul

Another timely and universal question from a visitor came in to our Flagstaff hotels and visitors guide, Flagstaff.com. I know lots of people want to know exactly when to come to Flagstaff to see fiery gold, red and orange fall foliage.  Today, Jared specifically wanted to know when to visit, where to stay and where to go to see the best of Flagstaff’s fall leaves.

Dear Arizona Travel:

My wife and I are planing a trip to Flagstaff and want to go when the changing of the colors is best, when would that be this year? If we were to stay a night where would a good place be to stay that we can take a walk or something in a good forest area to look at the colors?

–Jared W.

My answer, with some really helpful links, after the bump…

Dear Jared:

In general, mid-September to mid-October is optimal for leaves changing in Flagstaff… particularly with the aspen.  However, things have not quite started to change yet, so I would plan your visit for end of September, first week of October. Keep an eye on this fall foliage map from weather.com… it’s a great resource for planning a trip for this very short season!

A hotel with forested walking areas?  Bingo – Little America Flagstaff is exactly what you’re looking for.  The 500-acre property has a 2-mile walking trail that winds through a ponderosa pine forest.

Flagstaff has a terrific Urban Trails System; check out the city’s FUTS webpage for trail maps, descriptions and more.  I recommend the Aspen Loop trail for walking and light hiking. Start at the lower parking lot of the Humphrey’s trailhead. This 4-mile stretch (round trip up to 8 miles long,) is a recently completed section of the mother 300-mile Arizona Trail. The trail is fairly level, decending only about 300 feet, and traverses the mountain with great views of Kendrick and Humphrey’s mountains. It winds through ponderosa and fir, then enters a beautiful aspen grove. With luck, you’ll see some tremendous fall colors.

For a more moderately strenuous hike, consider the Kendrick Trail.  We just did a great blog post on this trail that will give you all the details.

If you come a little further into October, definitely do a scenic drive from Flagstaff to Sedona via Oak Creek Canyon (Hwy 89). It is a spectacular drive and absolutely gorgeous in the fall.

–ChristinaToo

Kendrick Trail in Flagstaff, Arizona is a great hike all around. If you are a regular hiker, this trail would be an enjoyable walk in the park with stunning flora and views along the way as well as a very satisfying 360 degree vista once you get to the top.  If you’re not a regular hiker, this is a manageable yet challenging hike that is well worth a little extra push. Let’s put it this way, I saw a couple well into their 70′s doing just fine. Albeit ,though they were in great health.

Kendrick Trail itself is the easiest among three trails to get to the top of Kendrick Peak. The trail is narrow with many switchbacks but gradual with an elevation change of 2,780 feet and a distance totaling 8 miles in and back out. The trail climbs along the northeast slope with a clear view of Mt. Humphrey’s and the ski runs of Arizona Snowbowl about halfway up the trail.

Once you reach the top of the mountain, there is an old log cabin with two cots and sleep gear in a closed chest as well as a little book log to sign. The cabin was built in 1911 just .3 miles up to Kendrick Peak where the fire watch tower was built. The cabin was built in the early twentieth century for the watchman’s convenience. Now, there is a modern watchtower where the fire watchman can sleep on top of the world and just radio down warnings of fires as far as the Grand Canyon and Painted Desert on a clear day.

View Photos of Kendrick Trail

KENDRICK TRAIL

Highlights:

• Breath taking views from the fire lookout on Kendrick Peak.
• Near:Flagstaff, AZ
• Distance: 8 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: 2,780 ft
• Hike Time: 6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Condition: Well maintained trail
• HikeType: Out and Back

DIRECTIONS:

From Flagstaff, go northwest on US 180 to mile marker 230. Turn west on FR 245 and follow it to its end at FR 171 (3.6 miles). Turn right and go north on FR 171 for 3.1 miles to FR 190. Turn right and go east .9 miles to the trailhead. Trailhead is accessible by car, except in wet weather. This trailhead is well marked and has directional maps and a pit toilet

photo credit: lanuiop on flickr.com

Okay, that sounds like a mother’s advice.  And maybe that’s fitting, with Mother’s Day approaching this weekend.

But what this post, another installment from guest blogger, Gregory Drambour, is  encouraging locals and Sedona visitors to do is learn from all the great messages we’ve heard in our lives – our mothers’ lectures (“Be responsible!”), the Golden Rule (“Honor them and they will honor you”), the Boy Scouts’ motto (“Be prepared!”), the inner voice that is Fear (“Something’s not right here, proceed with caution!”), the voice of Reason (“Sun is setting in the West + Trailhead was West = Head West”), and our own positive self-talk (“You CAN do this, stay focused!”).

Greg’s post is, on its surface,  a warning and a checklist for safe hiking in Sedona.  As an experienced orienteer and guide in this area, Greg gives great pointers on staying calm, minding your trail and being prepared.  But on a deeper level, Greg reminds us to both see Fear as a healthy and helpful instinct, and also to use positive self-talk to help guide us to workable and successful solutions in our lives.  Remember that even though you may not be on the path you thought you were on, you can safely see your way to your destination.

Enjoy, and Happy Mother’s Day to all of you moms and people who have moms.

###

Sedona Can Be A Teacher – Confronting Fear

photo credit: heyjohngreen on flickr.com

Yesterday in the early evening I went hiking and climbing for a few hours by myself in the big red rocks above Sedona. I climbed up further then I’ve ever been.
I stopped at a red rock plateau way above the town—what a view of Sedona! I could see all the way to Court House Rock. I felt something pushing me to go further–so up I went—the degree of steepness and danger increased with each ten meters. I was scrambling on a lot of loose rocks which were unstable. I hesitated for a moment but then as always I kept following that gut feeling that has served me so well and kept climbing. I could see that I was nearing a towering red rock face–something kept pulling me towards it.
When I got to the cliff face, I sat down and went into that place of stillness, trusting that there was something that Spirit wanted me to feel or see. After about five minutes nothing came and then I felt inside it was time to descend. I wondered what this inner guidance was all about. As you can probably tell this is a very dangerous place (I would never take clients here—no worries!)
The decent was steep and again a lot of unstable little rocks underfoot. I felt myself being pulled to the left and questioned briefly if that’s why I was drawn to the cliff face. I would not have descended this way but it was only 100 feet from the way I had come up. So I went down and down—always being very careful—talking to myself, “Easy Greg, careful, stay focused”.
I stopped to get some water and looked around. The area I was standing in looked totally unfamiliar and I could not see the way I had come up. As I climb I always make sure I can retreat on the same line. I didn’t see that line! So I could be descending into a cliff drop! A wave of fear ran through my body and I could feel that sinking feeling on the edge of my emotions, ready to sweep in. Having hiked a lot off-trail in the Sedona area, I know how easily you can get yourself into serious trouble very fast. Fifty-foot cliff drops have a way of appearing out of nowhere.
My experience hiking off-trail has taught me a great deal and it really served me well on this beautiful Sedona evening. Now instead of panicking, I sat still for a few moments and do what all good climbers and hikers should do: situation assessment and equipment inventory. I had about one hour max until twilight set in and enough water for at least three hours plus a cell phone that was operational. I just went quieter listening for my inner guidance. After a few moments it guided me to explore the line of descent I was making another a few hundred meters and if nothing appeared to show me a clear way down I would back-track to the cliff face. The fear inside me has eased considerably. I made sure I greeted the little plants along the descent, “A Ho, brothers, A Ho sisters.” Always remembering–if you honor them, they will honor you, which is always my intention with the plant, rock and tree people when I guide clients on Sedona Vortex experiences.
I kept talking to myself as I took one step at a time over the unstable gravel and pebbles, “Easy, brother, one step at a time.” When I got to the distance I had marked, I could see that the topography (finally got to use this word!) appeared to be transitioning into the base of the mountain. Let me stress the word “appeared”. It’s not always as it looks. But my inner guidance said go for it and I did. Within about ten minutes I was safely down at the base!
I was unsure of how far I was from the trail head I had veered off to start the climb but I knew it was the in “that” direction. Again, first stopping to check how much light I had left and to make sure every five hundred meters I was heading the right way, not getting over confident. After about twenty minutes I found the trail and stopped and offered my deepest thanks to the Old Ones and the Rock and Plant People for watching over me.
Why tell this story? I have seen this kind of scenarios end up badly. I saw clearly how I didn’t let fear get me un-centered. I felt the fear and didn’t try and run from it. I let it motivate me to slow down and quiet down even more than I was. I gave my experience a chance to form itself. I was patient and did not get ahead of myself. And I was grateful for my experience to lead me down the mountain safely. I saw that I have truly learned something over the years and was proud of myself.
Ultimately, I was grateful that I followed my inner guidance to climb as high as I did—I wouldn’t have learned as much about myself and trust and using emotions if I hadn’t.
That’s part of living here in the Magic Kingdom called Sedona—you never quite know what a little early evening stroll will bring!
A Ho,
Greg

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for Grand Canyon Country. A storm system will move into Arizona on Sunday (Jan 27) with heavy rainfall possible. The Backcountry Information Center strongly recommends hikers watch the development of this storm closely. Most folks are unaware that historically the “biggest” Grand Canyon floods tend to occur in the winter.
The Grand Canyon Weather Conditions page (www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/weather-condition.htm) has:
• links to current weather and forecast information for the South Rim, North Rim, and Phantom Ranch
• NOAA Live Audio Forecast for Grand Canyon (weather radio)
• phone numbers for recorded messages on road conditions and links to state highway websites

View article on Grand Canyon weather and road closures…

Significant snowfall has occurred along the rim in the past couple of days. All trails are snow packed above Redwall and due to the amount of snow that fell, north facing and/or shaded trails and roads will be impacted for weeks to come. Access to the South Bass Trail is not recommended (maybe not even possible). We’ve had nighttime lows near 0 degrees F on the rim. It is also cold at night on the Canyon floor with daytime highs near the Colorado River in the 40s or 50s F, nighttime lows in the 20s and 30s F. During winter the upper sections of the inner Canyon trails are usually icy, slippery, and potentially hazardous. When such conditions exist we recommend instep crampons or some other type of traction device be utilized. Wintertime also brings with it the dangers of hypothermia. An up-to-date weather forecast, warm sleeping bag, good quality rainwear, synthetic insulation that will keep you warm even when wet, a warm hat, and perhaps a tent are all standard for Canyon hiking during the cool months.

View article…

January happens to be the time of year that many people begin planning their trips to the Grand Canyon. Who better to ask for a recommendation than someone who treks The Canyon for a living! Rob Sewell, an avid outdoors man who owns his own Grand Canyon guided tour company, wrote a small article that provides some insight as to what we can expect when exploring the Grand Canyon…

“Backpacking through the depths of this vast labyrinth, from the Canyon’s Rim to the Colorado River, reveals a truly enlightened look at one of the wonders of the natural world. On a recent trip to the Grand Canyon, Delores Miller, accompanied by Hydros Adventures, set out on the world renowned Bright Angel Loop.

This hike is the classic Grand Canyon loop hike and a great backpack for first time Canyon hikers. Using the South Kaibab Trail, a route built by the park service for its expansive views, one walks through the geologic past, making their way to the mighty Colorado River and Bright Angel Campground. Adjacent to the Bright Angel Creek, this is a great base to fish, hike, explore, and relax while taking in the splendor of the inner gorge. Making your ascent out of the Canyon, you will hike through Devil’s Corkscrew and along Garden Creek, through some beautiful sandstone narrows before reaching Indian Gardens. Here, in this desert oasis of ancient cottonwoods, you can set out to observe ancient ruins or take a hike to Plateau Point, one of the most amazing views in the inner canyon. After Indian Gardens, you will hike up Jacob’s Ladder, past stunning vistas and ancient pictographs (rock art) to the end of your journey…”

Read full article about the Bright Angel Loop at the Grand Canyon