Mule Rides at the Grand Canyon
For those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, we offer two guided rides using a time-honored method of canyon transportation: the sure-footed mule.
Abyss Overlook Mule Ride
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.
Overnight Rides to Phantom Ranch
Overnight rides stay the night at Phantom Ranch, a rustic oasis nestled deep in the Canyon. You will journey down the Bright Angel Trail and enjoy lunch at Indian Garden, then proceed along the cliffs of the Inner Gorge, across the Colorado River on the Suspension Bridge, and up Bright Angel Canyon on the north side of the river to Phantom Ranch. Each cabin is furnished with bunk beds, sink, toilet, bedding, soap, and towels. Showers are available.
After breakfast the next morning, you return via the Bright Angel Trail. The ride down is about 10.5 miles (5.5 hours) and back up is about 10.5 miles (6.5 hours). We provide a small plastic bag for essential toiletries, extra underclothing, swimsuit, etc. Duffel Service is available for additional personal items at an additional charge.
This service must be reserved and purchased in advance. One-night ride: $481.71 for the first person or two people for $850.31 and includes accommodations, breakfast, lunch and steak dinner. Each additional person is $381.52. The two-night ride: $673.80 for the first person, and $1,121.36 for two persons and includes tax, accommodations, breakfast, lunch, steak dinner on the first night and stew dinner on the second night. Each additional person is $473.41.
Please inquire about rates for additional riders.
Ride 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.
Rider Qualifications
Each Overnight Phantom Ranch rider must not weigh more than 200 lbs. (91 kilograms) fully dressed. Each 3 hour Abyss overlook rider must not weigh more than 225 lbs. (102k). Yes, we do weigh everyone. Each rider must be at least 4 feet, 7 inches (55 total inches or 1.38 meters) in height, regardless of previous riding experience. Each rider must be able to speak and understand fluent English. Each rider must be in good physical condition. Riders should not be afraid of heights or large animals. Rider cannot be pregnant.
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