New three-hour trail ride in Grand Canyon National Park: Abyss Overlook Mule Ride

October 5, 7:00 PMOffbeat Places ExaminerNeala Schwartzberg

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The new mule ride follows a trail heading west through a forest of ponderosa pine, piñon pine and junipers to the rim of the Grand Canyon.

The ride is approximately one hour and 15 minutes each way with a half-hour stop at the Abyss where riders can dismount to stretch their legs and shoot photos.

The Abyss features a 3,000-foot vertical drop and views of many of the Grand Canyon’s colorful pinnacles, buttes and mesas. The rides return on the same trail.

All trips feature a maximum of 20 riders and will depart from the main livery barn in Grand Canyon Village. The cost of the ride is $110 plus tax.

Abyss Overlook Mule Ride replaces the seven-hour trip to Plateau Point. Overnight mule rides to Phantom Ranch on the floor of the Grand Canyon are not affected. Water, snacks and “Bota Bags” are included. Rain jackets are available on the ride as well.

In 1904 the Fred Harvey Company became the exclusive provider of mule rides at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Xanterra Parks & Resorts, then known as Amfac Parks & Resorts, purchased the Fred Harvey Company in 1968.

Mule rides may be reserved by calling 1-303-297-2757 or toll-free within the United States at 1-888-297-2757 or sending a request via e-mail to reserve-gcsr@xanterra.com.