Intensity: 4,  Duration: 3-3.5 hours,  Location: Grand Canyon Village, Grand Canyon South Rim Trail

Description

Taking a mule ride at the Grand Canyon is a century old tradition, but for some the fear of heights keeps them from a ride along or in the canyon itself.
We at Xanterra South Rim have come up with a solution, the Abyss Overlook Mule Ride.
The Abyss Overlook mule ride begins at the world famous Grand Canyon Livery Barn, located in Grand Canyon Village, which is more than one hundred years old. You will then set out for a peaceful trip through the forest. You will ride along a section of the historic Grand Canyon railroad tracks, formerly the Santa Fe Railroad, then through the largest Pinyon Pine forest in the country. While taking in the serene forest surroundings keep your eyes peeled for the many varieties of wildlife living in the area. You may be able to spot a family of mule deer or the occasional grazing elk. Keep your ears open for the delightful sounds of chirping birds and chattering squirrels.
About 75 minutes into your ride you will dismount your mule and enjoy a snack at the spectacular Abyss Overlook. This is your one opportunity to take in the sights of the Grand Canyon during the ride, so have your cameras ready for this breathtaking view. Here you can enjoy the grandeur and take photos atop the 3000 foot vertical drop and marvel at the beauty of the canyon’s many colorful pinnacles, buttes and mesas.
After your break you will ride your mules back through the forest again to the mule barn. Your total ride time includes 2 ½ hours in the saddle and roughly 30 minutes at the Abyss Overlook. A bota bag for water and snacks are included.
Mule riders must check in at the Bright Angel Transportation Desk at least 90 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. To make reservations please call our central reservations center at 1-888-29-PARKS (1-888-297-2757) or outside the U.S. at 1-303-297-2757.
 

Departure Locations

Departs from Bright Angel Lodge.

Length of Tour

3 to 3 1/2 hours.

Rates

$122.81 including tax, per person. Includes a light snack, and water.

Tour Details

The 3 hour mule ride departs twice daily, through October, and once daily through mid March from the Historic Mule Barn just a short walk from the Bright Angel Lodge.

Brief stops are made to rest the mules, during which time it is possible to take pictures but not dismount. Restroom facilities are available at the halfway point. Following a 30 minute rest stop at Abyss overlook, the trip will return via the same route back to the village.

Passenger Requirements

• Must be 225 lbs. or less
• At least 4'7" (no age requirement)
• In good general physical condition
• Not Pregnant
• No undue fear of heights or large animals
• Be able to speak and understand fluent English
• Be at least 16 years old to ride without a guardian

Clothing Requirements

• Long sleeve shirts that cover the wrists
• Long pants to the ankles
• Wide brim hat to shield your face and neck from the sun
• Closed toe shoes that must encompass your entire foot no slide-ons
• Bandannas are suggested, but not required

 Rider Safety

Our mules are carefully selected for strength, endurance, and temperament. They are thoroughly trained by our guides so that they are well adapted to the unique environment and work situation of the Grand Canyon.

Although we have 80 years of experience in working with mules, they are animals and not always predictable. The restrictions we place on our rides are intended for safety and to avoid distracting or disturbing the mules. There is always an element of risk due to trail conditions, other trail users, and sudden appearances of wildlife native to the Grand Canyon. While serious accidents or injury seldom occur, risk is minimized by carefully following the Trail Guide’s instructions.

Resources

• Duffel Service
• Phantom Ranch Reservation Request Form
• More about Phantom Ranch
• Mule Rider Do’s & Don’ts
• Weather - Inner Canyon Climate Variation
• Is the Ride Dangerous?

Insider Tips

• Persons arriving at the Grand Canyon without mule reservations can inquire at the Bright Angel Transportation Desk as to availability of the rides.  Advance reservations are always highly recommended. 

Additional Maps

Additional printable maps of the Grand Canyon area are available courtesy of the National Park Service. Visit our general Maps page for more information.