First trip to the Grand Canyon and Flag

Identifying & Discovering
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I totally understand holding off on hiking plans, but you might surprise yourself :grin: Wupatki and Sunset don’t really require hiking; we’ve been to both many times, and enjoy them so much that we’re still going to go back this summer (one entry fee covers both).

If you don’t feel like hiking on the Rim, make sure to at least take the West Rim shuttle out to the Mary Colter designed Hermit’s Rest which is a lovely little building, and usually has big ol’ Ravens hopping around on the rocks. If you stop at some of the farthest west viewpoints you’ll have expansive views with less people. And most definitely get off at the Trailview Overlook (first one) which gives you the incredible view of the Bright Angel switchbacks. Plus anywhere on the rim keep your eyes open for Condors.

I forgot, if you have time on the way to Cameron from the East Rim entrance you can stop at the Little Colorado Overlook which is crazy impressive too. I believe it is a Navajo Nation Park.

So cool that you’re staying at the Weatherford! We have never stayed there, but I’ve always been curious about it. And I don’t know if you knew, but this is the centennial of Rt 66, so kind of a fun year to be in Flag!

One question, how far out did you have to reserve your rafting trip? And I will be interested in hearing how scary it is. We’ve only whitewater rafted once in West Virginia.

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We’re not actually staying at the Weatherford; I had just noted it and its bars and restaurants when I was doing some research. It looks very nice though. We’re staying at the hotel that the rafting trip departs from bc it’s just easier.

We booked this probably about 16 months in advance? Definitely over a year. Some of the trips fill up very far in advance. Some won’t fill and you can book closer, but if you want a specific time or trip you need to plan very far out

Thanks for all the tips about the rim! I knew there would be no better person to ask.

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Oh okay, I was confused. I wasn’t going to say, but I had heard that the rooms can be noisy due to the bar below.

You’re very welcome, it gives me joy to reminisce! Sorry if I rambled too much. We are heading west this summer, spending some time with our friends in Phoenix, and then doing some things in NM, but I am managing to slip in a quick trip just to the East Rim side of GC. Now you’ve made me extra glad, and if I see any rafts below when we’re at Lipan Point I’ll imagine how much fun you had rafting :grin:

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And thanks, I was thinking you had to reserve way out. I think that’s another reason why I never even really considered it since my husband’s job at GM doesn’t allow him to plan vacations more than a year out. But he does retire this year…

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