At approximately 9:00 this morning the Grand Canyon Regional Dispatch Center received a radio call from a mule wrangler reporting that a mule had lost it's footing, fell, and then . These animals combine the sure-footedness of a burro with the larger size and strength of a horse, and have been carrying canyon visitors since the late 1800s. Ski caps and gloves are recommended for winter riders. Mule Conservation status Domesticated Scientific classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Perissodactyla Family: Equidae Tribe: Equini Genus: Equus Species: E. africanus asinus E. ferus caballus The mule is a domestic equine hybrid between an ass and a horse. Its easy to mistake horses, donkeys, and mules. The mule rides at the Grand Canyon should be on everyone's bucket list. All riders mustbe present to check-in at the Bright Angel Lodges transportation desk preferably the day before the ride or at least onehour before departure time. Step back in time as you ride your mule downthe rugged trail. Mule trips on the North Rim are operated by Grand Canyon Trail Rides from mid-May to mid-October. We apologize for the inconvenience and encourage you to seek lodging at one of our properties on the rim. Canyon Trail Rides mule rides may be reserved by calling: 435-679-8665. At least 6 months to 1 year previous customer service experience. The accident occurred approximately 2 miles below the rim on the Bright Angel Trail. An investigation into the cause of the accident will be completed by the National Park Service. They also offer horse and mule rides in Zion and Bryce National Parks. RIDER QUALIFICATIONS valid for rides with an arrival date through September 30, 2017:(These apply to all mule ride activities), RIDER QUALIFICATIONS valid for rides with an arrival date of October 1, 2017, and beyond:(These apply to all mule ride activities). Saunter along canyon trails and experience a part of Grand Canyon today. We offer two guided rides using a time-honored method of canyon transportation: the sure-footed mule. Although we have over 100 years of experience working with mules, they are animals and not always predictable. However, she LOVED her mule ride! You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page. You cannot see the Grand Canyon in one view, as it were a changeless spectacle from which a curtain might be lifted, but to see it you have to toil from month to month through its labyrinths. Two companies offering horse and mule rides on the South Rim are the Grand Canyon Lodges and Apache Stables. 16. There are up to 20 riders per departure. You will enjoy a box lunch at Indian Garden, and then proceed along the rock face 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. It is an overnight trip. Horses rear up when they get startled, but a mule will just plant itself and not move. The Mule Rides depart at 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. (you must check in by 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. respectively). Eyeglasses must be secured by a string or strap. Download the official NPS app before your next visit. For the most part, driving in Grand Canyon National Park is relatively easyso easy that it can lead to a false . Phantom Ranch will do their best to accommodate all special requests. Swimsuit/Shorts/Water Sandals: For Phantom Ranch riders, Bright Angel Creek is perfect to get in and cool off from April through October. When Fred Harvey Co., built Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, everything besides the stone had to be carried in on the backs of mules. Rating: 5out of 5 They are thoroughly trained by the guides so that they are well adapted to the unique environment and work situation of the Grand Canyon. Canyon Vistas mule riders should plan to provide their own rain gear as necessitated by local weather forecasts. In order to avoid late fees or charges for extra duffels, duffels must be dropped off on time, and must meet weight and dimension requirements. The offer is not valid with the Interagency Annual Pass. You can take a ride for one to three hours along the rim or longer for a more intense experience. There are up to 20 riders per departure. Every visitor needs to experience the Grand Canyon Mule Rides North Rim. Grand Canyon National Park Lodges is offering afour-mile, three-hour muleactivity (two-hours in the saddle)that departs five miles east of the Historic Grand Canyon Village in the park. Riders must be in good physical condition, Phantom Ranch: Riders must weigh less than 200 pounds (90 kg), fully dressed, Canyon Vistas: Riders must weigh less than 225 pounds (102 kg),fully dressed, Riders must be at least 4 feet, 7 inches tall (1.4 meters), Each rider must be able to speak and understand fluent English, Riders should not be afraid of heights or large animals, Riders age 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older, Long sleeve shirts, long pants, broad brim hats and close-toed shoes are required, Ski caps and gloves are recommended for winter riders, Riders height must be proportionate to his or her weight, Riders must be at least 4 feet, 9 inches tall (1.44 meters), Riders age 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult 18 or older. (The information below was taken directly from the Grand Canyon National Park Lodge's Mule Rides page. I can't recommend this tour enough, and I cannot speak highly enough of . Why mules and not horses? Our mules are thoroughly trained, and are well adapted to the unique environment and work situation at Grand Canyon. Guest is responsible for providing their own duffel. Long sleeve shirts, long pants, broad brim hats, and close-toed shoes are required. Rain jackets are provided. The South Rim offers both day and overnight mule rides. Share This: Share Electrician at Grand Canyon National Park on Twitter Share Electrician at Grand Canyon National Park on Linkedin Share Electrician at Grand Canyon National Park on Facebook; Copy Link; Posted on: November 30, 2022 Apply Now. Call Xanterra Parks & Resorts, at 888-297-2757 or 303-297-2757 or check their website at www.grandcanyonlodges.com/things-to-do/mule-trips/to book your reservation, and for more information. All riders must sign a risk acknowledgment agreement before taking the ride. You should make your reservations for the overnight tour 13 months in advance on the first day of the month you want the tour. See below for more about the Grand Canyon ride. Professional wranglers will saddle you up to ride several trails both along the rim and into the heart of the Grand Canyon. Our 8-year old daughter joined Cheryl on the ride. If you have special dietary needs, such as glucose intolerance or food allergies, please advise the reservation agent at the time of booking. Overnight mule rides stay the night at Phantom Ranch, a rustic historic oasis nestled deep in the canyon. Plus learn a little bit about mules. Each additional person is $566.31 January 1 through December 31, 2017. This 4-mile mule ride along the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park traverses the rim from Yaki Point in Grand Canyon Village to Shoshone Point. In this article we'll cover: Phantom Ranch is a comfortable oasis nestled at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. No talking or texting allowed on cell phones during the ride. Must adhere to grooming standards. $838.31 for the first person, and $1378.62 for two people January 1 through December 31, 2017, Steak dinner on the first night and stew dinner on the second night. While I grew up with horses, Cheryl is NOT comfortable around them. When they take a solid step with their front legs, they repeat that exact placement with their back legs. A short interpretive tour to the Yaki Barn and back is part of the adventure. Hire our professional travel advisors or trip coaches. Sun Protection: Sunscreen, lip sunscreen, or moisturizer is always recommended. This is called the, Riders must be at least 4 feet, 9 inches tall. In this article well cover: Mule rides along the South Rim are operated by Xanterra, a concessionaire of the National Park Service. We had limited time at the Grand Canyon and we had to schedule mule ride on the day of our arrival. Duffel Service is available for additional personal items at an additional charge. This is an overnight trip and must be booked in advance with Xanterra Parks and Resorts. Check to enable permanent hiding of message bar and refuse all cookies if you do not opt in. Failure to check in on time may result in the cancellation of your reservation and forfeiture of your deposit. Get inspired with tips about where to go and what to see on your national park vacation, delivered right to your inbox. This 2-day ride takes 5 1/2 hours to ride to the bottom of the canyon on the Bright Angel Trail (the village). Our mules are thoroughly trained, and are well adapted to the unique environment and work situation at Grand Canyon. Grand Canyon Mule Rides & Horseback Riding, Copyright - Grand Canyon Visitor Center. Click on the different category headings to find out more. Mule ride options include 1-3 hour rides along the rim of the canyon, 3-hour rides into the canyon, and multi-day trips to the bottom of the canyon. Visit Grand Canyon Trail Rides' website at. The Grand Canyons South Rim is situated at 7,000 feet elevation; its interior is situated at about 2,000 feet. All rides are with experienced guides and our mules are selected for their gentle temperament, being trail wise and sure footed. All rates quoted in U.S. It will cross the Colorado River and stop at Phantom Ranch. Can't say that about Arizona's Grand Canyon, it requires a day on the back of a mule. If you think the view from the rim takes your breath away, wait until you experience the Grand Canyon from within. RESERVATIONS Mule rides may be reserved by calling 1-303-297-2757 or toll-free within the United States at 1-888-297-2757. All these are good thing on canyon trails. GROUPS Ten mule riders are designated as a Group. From there the woman was flown by Classic Life Guard to the Flagstaff Medical Center for treatment of her injuries. There are always elements of risk due to trail conditions, other trail users, and sudden appearances of wildlife native to Grand Canyon. Bus transportation is included to and from Yaki Barn. This tour is the ONLY way to drive to the Bottom! The Mule Ride departs at 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. November 1st through February 28/29th The Mule Ride departs at 9:00 a.m. PRICING - The cost of the ride is $142.83 per person, including tax, and is subject to change without notice. They have the sure-footedness of a donkey but the size and compliance of a horse. There is always an element of risk due to trail conditions, other trail users, and sudden appearances of wildlife native to the Grand Canyon. Duffel service must be reserved and purchased in advance. I was a different person the last time I stood on the rim of the Grand Canyon. You will enjoy a box lunch at Indian Garden, and then proceed along the rock face 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. The restrictions we place on our rides are intended for safety and to avoid distracting or disturbing the mules. So, in December of 2012, we made reservations to ride mules to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. No worries, there are rest stops along the way. C-pap machines may be carried in by duffel service, or in the mule saddle bag, depending on the size. The National Park Service has informed Xanterra Travel Collection that they are moving forward with the planning and eventual execution of major infrastructure rehabilitation projects, and that the projects will impact some of our concessions operations. Enter the Phantom Ranch Lottery $16.55/Hour. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Each additional person is $452.43 January 1 through December 31, 2017. You cannot ride if you weigh more than 225 lbs. Full-Time, Part-Time STEM Expires March 1, 2023. This remarkable adventure is often called the easy way down to Phantom Ranch, but it can actually be more strenuous and challenging! Maybe youre wondering: What are your options for mule rides, and how much do they cost? Here our Livery Manager will prepare you for the ride by reviewing the safety requirements and provide you with information about the trail and Grand Canyon. Horses and donkeys are different species, but both were brought to the Americas by the Spanish in the 1500s. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Grand Canyon mule riders are able to take in the breathtaking vistas of Grand Canyon National Park while traveling along the rim of the canyon. The Inner Canyon Tour takes you to the Bottom of the Grand Canyon in style without hiking or riding a Mule. Grand Canyon Lodges The Mule Ride departs at 10:00 a.m. (you must check in by 8:30 a.m.). More than 600,000 people have taken Grand Canyon mule rides since they were first offered in 1887. The ride back up is about 10.5 miles (5.5 hours). Grand Canyon, AZ 86023. Rating: 5out of 5 Located in the far western Grand Canyon near Tuweep, Bar 10 Ranch offers trail rides on horseback for ranch guests. On the Grand Canyon's longest mule tour, the overnight ride to Phantom Ranch, you'll be part of a larger group making the 10.5-mile trek from the North Rim down the Bright Angel Trail to. The mule ride down to Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the Grand Canyon takes 3.5 to 4 hours. We used Canyon Trail Rides at the Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon, and we thought they were fantastic! This will allow us to inform you of any weather or trail conditions that may affect your trip. 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