Williams, AZ - Grand Canyon NP (9/24 - 9/30/24)

We finally made it to our winter destination in the state of Arizona. Our first stop was to the town of Williams where we could visit the Grand Canyon National Park on the South Rim. We stayed at the Grand Canyon / Williams KOA that was north of Williams on the road to the park.

This was my first visit to the south rim and it did not disappoint. The views were amazing and there was much more to do than just look at the canyon.

Like many areas in the southwest, there were history lessons to be discovered. Here at the Desert View Watchtower on the east side of the park, you can climb the almost 100 year old tower with more amazing views of the canyon.

Taking in the many views gives you a different perspective, but the pictures don't give the immensity of the depth and size justice.

More views of the canyon.

One day we decided to avoid the lines and parking woes to enter the park by riding our bikes in from the town of Tusayan. From there you can park your car and ride the paved trail about six miles into the park free of charge. The trail was mostly a shaded ride through the forest.

Once in the park, there are several trails that allow bikes to get you around. Here we rode a trail that followed the rim for a couple of miles.

While on the trail we ran into a few elk grazing nearby.

We went to the park three times and had great weather every day.

Another day, we took the train from Williams to the Grand Canyon lodges along the rim. The ride takes about 2 hours each way, but they serve food and drinks and provide live music to keep you entertained.

Another great view!

We didn't go here this time, but I highly recommend a day trip to Page, AZ if you come to the Grand Canyon. This is the view of Horseshoe Bend just outside Page. I took this photo back in 2018.

You can also visit the Antelope Canyons. They are slot canyons that have multiple tour options available. I did the photography tour that allowed me to take a few dozen photos completely clear of people getting in the picture. They also stage the sand and dust to add to the visual appeal.

When we went to the North Rim back in 2018, we enjoyed a totally different experience from the South Rim. There are lots of views here too with many hiking trails. This place was just more laid back with far less people. You were many miles from the nearest town.

The North Rim is much less crowded and everything essentially revolves around the Grand Canyon Lodge - North Rim where all your needs could be met. I recommend dinner at the lodge. We camped at the campground near the lodge. Unlike the South Rim, this part of the park closes for the winter in October.

Now we head to Flagstaff to enjoy the activities in that part of the state...