There are several ways to see the Grand Canyon. Nothing, however, stacks up to going on a canyon air tour. Two types are offered: Helicopter and plane. Both fly Grand Canyon West and the National Park. Let's take a closer look at these fantastic trips:
The West Rim
This is actually the rim you ought to visit should you be visiting Vegas. It's a destination most noted for its fun-based activities and interesting attractions. Helicopter and airplane trips begin with the classic air-only trip. Helicopter packages can be extended to include a 4,000-foot descent to the bottom of the West Rim. If you find yourself feeling really adventurous, add a river-rafting trip down the Colorado River. There's even a package deal that includes an 11-mile smooth-water float trip that starts off at the base of Hoover Dam. Airplane flights may also be enhanced to include these side-trips.
Another big Grand Canyon West air trip includes the Grand Canyon Skywalk. Nicknamed the "glass bridge," the Sky Walk draws in over 200,000 visitors each year. This impressive example of modern-day engineering carries you 70 feet beyond the side of the rim. Under you some 4,000 feet is the churning Colorado River. It's gravity defying adventure at its best.
Grand Canyon National Park
All chopper and plane rides depart from Grand Canyon Airport in Tusayan, AZ, a small town directly beyond the National Park's main gate. The airspace over the National Park is tightly regulated and all air excursions adhere to exact flight plans. Heli flights leave over Grand Canyon Village and enter the Dragoon Corridor, the broadest, deepest area of the Grand Canyon, before going back at the majestic North Rim.
Plane rides have a different path. They begin northeast and use the edge of the South Rim as a guide. Points of interest as you go along include historic the Painted Desert, the Little Colorado River, the Desert Watchtower, The Navajo Indian Reservation, and the North Rim. I estimate that what you see during this air tour is equivalent to two or more days on the ground.
Should you be looking for an even more in depth South Rim journey, check out the 1-day smooth water float tour. Flights depart the South Rim and land at Glen Canyon Dam for the start of an awesome 15-mile water-rafting (kids four-years-of-age and older are welcome).
Obtaining the Best Price
The Net has transformed how we buy travel. I encourage you to search online and shop these air tours. There are lots out there. I've come across some great deals on the market with a few shaving off 35 percent of the list price! When you book online, don't be tempted to call customer care to complete your transaction. The individual on the other end of the line is a commissioned sales agent. It's there job to move you up to a more costly package. If you must call, use it to get the questions you have answered, then hang up the phone and conclude your booking on their website. That will ensure you get the best possible price.
Let's fly!
Experiencing the Grand Canyon by air is the greatest way to interact National Park. Chopper and plane tours can be reserved for the West Rim and the South Rim. I might suggest that Las Vegas visitors investigate going to the Grand Canyon West as it's just 120 miles away and will take only 45 minutes to reach. If you want to see the South Rim from Vegas, you have to take an airplane tour (highly recommended!). There are no helicopter flights between the two rims. List prices for air tours are over-priced. Always purchase your tickets via the internet. Grand Canyon air tours - your ticket to viewing the canyon in all its splendor.
Travel writer Keith Kravitz reports regularly on the Grand Canyon. Go here for his reviews of the Top 3 Grand Canyon Tour operators for airplane flights, helicopter rides and more. His unbiased rankings are based on quality, safety and price. If you want the best canyon experience, his reviews are definitely worth a look.
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