Grand Canyon Mule Trips

Options for Day Trips and Overnighters

What are the options? There is a one day trip which goes to Plateau Point. The ride departs daily from the Stone Corral at the Bright Angel Trailhead. You will ride 3,200 feet down to the point, where you will have a magnificent view of the Colorado River 1,320 feet below. Lunch (box lunch) is served at Indian Gardens before heading back up the trail. Saddle time is 6 hours and the 12 mile trip takes 7 hours.

If you want to get to the bottom of the canyon, a one-night or two-night stay at Phantom Ranch will be your choice. Phantom Ranch was designed by Mary Jane Elizabeth Colter, the famous Grand Canyon architect. It is a tree-shaded, creek-side oasis built in 1922. You can sleep in a bunk house or one of the original rustic cabins. Breakfast and dinner are served in the cantina. You may be joined by hikers or river rafters who can also make reservations to stay there. Sycamore and Cottonwood trees provide shade and during the summer, when temperatures can shoot over 100, you may want to take a dip in the creek.

The ride down to Phantom Ranch and back takes a bit longer than the day ride, but you have time to rest up from the ride down and sooth your aching backside before heading back to the canyon rim again. The ride down is 10 miles and takes 5.5 hours. The return is up South Kaibab trail. It is 7.5 miles and takes 4.5 hours. They promise even more beautiful vistas on the trip back.

Sign me up! How much is it? 2006 rates (subject to change) show that the one-day Plateau Point ride, including box lunch, is $136.35. The overnight at Phantom Ranch varies according to season and the number in the party but, for example, during the 2005 winter season the trip for two, including the stay at Phantom Ranch and meals, cost $597.50. Consult the official website for current pricing.

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