While the Grand Canyon's natural beauty never disappoints, there can be problems getting to do what you want there: The Grand Canyon attracts some 5 million visitors a year, and reservations are booked up to a year ahead for popular activities such as rafting and mule trips.
Here's one way to visit in style if you haven't planned that far in advance: Board the classic Grand Canyon Railway for a day long adventure to the world's ultimate scenic wonder (for reservations, call 800-843-8724).
From Arizona's Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Hotel, for example, it's a two-and-one-quarter hour drive to the historic Grand Canyon rail depot in Williams, Arizona, where this fully restored, circa 1923 steam train picks up passengers and carries them 64 miles to the Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim.
Sit back and relax in your rail car or enjoy the view from its outdoor platform. During the journey musicians serenade and free refreshments are offered. Passengers have three-and-a-half hours to explore the Canyon before reboarding. The most pleasant hikes are along the Rim Trail, and motor coach tours and free shuttle service to the Grand Canyon are also available.
From Scottsdale one could also take a flight seeing tour (800-528-2418) that includes transportation from your hotel and back, a half hour helicopter ride over the North Canyon, a stop at the South Rim, lunch, Grand Canyon National Park entry fee and admission to the IMAX theater.
Last-minute visitors can take their chances on the waiting list and hope for cancellations. For Grand Canyon National Park information, call 928-638-7888.
Book the Grand Canyon Railroad Excursion
Includes tour and roundtrip transportation from Flagstaff, Arizona
