Taking the kids to the Grand Canyon via The Historic Grand Canyon Railway in Williams, Arizona definitely rates high on the fun scale.
This day long adventure began with a wonderful buffet style breakfast at the railway's restaurant, Max & Thelma's. Following breakfast at 9:30 in the morning, we went outside the depot to watch a re-enactment of a Wild West shootout ... quite authentic, as the cowboys were portrayed by real cowboys. Shortly after, we boarded the train for our two hour, 65 mile ride to the Grand Canyon.
 |
The train, either a turn of
the 20th century steam engine or a 1950's diesel locomotive depending
on the time of year you travel, is a comfortable ride and quite entertaining.
Our hosts were friendly and even the conductor took the time
to make the rounds and say "hello" to the passengers.
Water is available in each car and there's a bar located in one of the cars where you'll find other types of drinks and a few snacks. |
| During the ride, we were serenaded by singing cowboys
that seemed to know almost every song you could think of to request.
Kids and parents alike enjoyed the show.
Also, throughout the trip, our host educated us on the history of the railroad, surrounding areas, and the Grand Canyon. It was pretty amazing to learn that we were on a railway that was built in 1901! Quick note: The altitude at the Grand Canyon is high and prone to extreme temperatures. Make sure you check the weather reports before you leave so you can dress accordingly. |
 |
 |
When we arrived at the South Rim of the
canyon, we were given the choice of a bus tour or hiking. We opted
for hiking. The first view of the Grand Canyon was breathtaking. Its' enormous size and vivid colors create the illusion of standing within a giant Southwestern painting… definitely a wondrous site to behold. It took 4-6 million years for erosion to create the Grand Canyon. It hosts a chasm 277 miles long with an average depth of 1 mile. |
| Native Americans
inhabited the canyon since the time of the Anasazi, approximately
700-1150 A.D. The first Europeans arrived in 1540. It is believed that the Hopi are modern descendants of the Anasazi and many Native American tribes including the Hopi, still live around the canyon. On our hike, we saw several different views of the canyon, and much wildlife. In fact, several large deer were sitting right off the trail. Important: Keep the kids close at all times. There are no guard rails and the drop off the side is lethal. Also, be aware that wind gusts come up unexpectedly. |
 |
After a three hour hike, we returned to the train for the trip back to Williams. The highlight of the ride back was when bandit cowboys rode up on horses and stopped the train for a mock robbery. The kids really got a kick out of that one!
All in all, the trip was everything we'd hoped for and very educational for kids. With the AAA club discount, the cost for 2 adults and 2 children was approximately $160 and included the park entrance fee.
Travel Tip: Bring bottled water and once again, check the weather! Williams, AZ is at 7,000 feet and depending on the time of year, can get REALLY cold.
|
||||||
    |
||||||
Copyright © 2004 -2007 FamilyMatters.tv - All Rights Reserved |
||||||
