Are you planning to visit Las Vegas and looking for an adventurous side trip? Look no further than the Grand Canyon! This natural wonder of the world is just a few hours’ drive away from Las Vegas and offers breathtaking views, gran cañon cerca de las vegas thrilling hikes, and exciting outdoor activities. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about exploring the Grand Canyon near Las Vegas, from the best viewpoints to the most challenging trails.
Introduction
The Grand Canyon is a massive gorge located in Northern Arizona, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. It’s a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting millions of visitors every year. While the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most popular tourist spot, the West Rim is closer to Las Vegas and offers a unique perspective on this natural wonder. In this article, we’ll focus on the West Rim, also known as the Grand Canyon West.
How to Get There
The Grand Canyon West is approximately 120 miles (190 km) from Las Vegas. You can get there by car, bus, helicopter, or airplane. If you’re driving, take US-93 South and follow the signs for Grand Canyon West. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take a bus tour from Las Vegas, which includes transportation, admission, and a guided tour. Helicopter and airplane tours are also available, offering a bird’s eye view of the Grand Canyon.
Admission and Fees
The admission fee for the Grand Canyon West varies depending on the package you choose. The basic package includes admission to the Hualapai Tribal Lands, where the Grand Canyon West is located, and access to the Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends over the canyon. The price for this package is $59.99 per person. Other packages include additional activities, such as helicopter tours, boat rides, and cultural experiences, and range from $139.99 to $349.99 per person. Children under 2 years old are free, and there are discounts for children and seniors.
Best Viewpoints
The Grand Canyon West offers several viewpoints that provide stunning views of the canyon. The most popular viewpoints are:
Eagle Point
Eagle Point is the location of the famous Skywalk, a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that extends 70 feet (21 meters) over the edge of the canyon. The Skywalk offers a unique perspective of the canyon and is a thrilling experience for those who dare to walk on it. Eagle Point also features a Native American Village, where you can learn about the Hualapai Tribe’s culture and traditions.
Guano Point
Guano Point is another popular viewpoint, located about 2 miles (3.2 km) from Eagle Point. It offers panoramic views of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. You can also hike to the top of the point, which offers a more challenging but rewarding experience.
Hualapai Ranch
Hualapai Ranch is a western-themed attraction located near the Grand Canyon West entrance. It features cowboy shows, horseback riding, and other activities that offer a glimpse into the Wild West era.
Hiking Trails
If you’re an adventurous hiker, the Grand Canyon West has several trails that offer a more intimate experience of the canyon. Keep in mind that these trails are challenging and require proper gear, water, and physical fitness. The most popular trails are:
The Rim Trail
The Rim Trail is a relatively easy trail that follows the edge of the canyon. It offers breathtaking views of the canyon and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
