This Is Why Horseback Riding Is One of The Best Must-Do Activities In The Grand Canyon

Imagine oneself in the Old Wild West on a horseback ride in one of the world's most dazzling natural attractions. Horse (or mule) rides make one feel like a cowboy (or cowgirl) as one descends deep into the most famous canyon in the world. There are horse and mule rides in the Grand Canyon - with the option of spending the night in the canyon.

Remember that riding in the Grand Canyon is very popular, while there are not that many tours available. One will need to book months in advance. Before getting too excited, check the weight and age limits. See here for the best month to visit the Grand Canyon.

Horse Riding In The Canyon Is Actually Mule Riding

Two companies offering horse and mule rides on the South Rim are the Grand Canyon Lodges and Apache Stables. There is another company - Grand Canyon Mule Rides - that offers rides in the North Rim. If one is in a hurry, see here for how to see the Grand Canyon in a day.

600,000: Number of People Who Have Taken Grand Canyon Mule Rides
1887: First Tourist Mule Ride Into The Canyon

While horses may be more iconic of the American West, the humble mule is the animal of choice for such a trek. In fact, the iconic painting by Jacques-Louis David of Napoleon crossing the Alps on a noble white horse was propaganda. Napoleon actually crossed on a mule. Mules combine sure-footedness with the strength of a horse.

Mule Rides With Grand Canyon Lodges

Grand Canyon Lodges offer mule rides down into the Grand Canyon and along the rim. They offer two rides with the sure-footed mules.

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Overnight Rides To Phantom Ranch

There is perhaps no Grand Canyon adventure more exhilarating than taking a mule ride down it. The overnight rides go deep into the canyon with an overnight stay on Phantom Ranch.

Phantom Ranch is a rustic historic oasis nestled deep within the canyon. Each cabin is furnished with bunk beds and basic necessities. Enjoy a hearty meal at the Phantom Ranch Canteen.

Length And Duration Down: 10.5 Miles And Approx. 5.5 Hours
Length And Duration Back-Up: 7.8 Miles and Approx. 5.5 Hours

There are a number of restrictions with this epic ride. Riders must be at least 9 years old and be at least 4 feet, 9 inches tall.

Weight Limit: Riders Must Weigh Less than 200 Pound or 90 Kg Fully Dressed

One-Night Ride

Season: Year-Round
Price: $702.13 (Tax Inclusive) For The First Person

Two-Night Ride

Season: November to March
Price: $1,028.98 (Tax Inclusive) For The First Person

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2-Hour Canyon Vistas Mule Ride

If one doesn't have the budget or time for this epic adventure, then they also offer a 2-hour Canyon Vistas Rim Ride. On this short journey, one will be spellbound by the majestic sights.

March 1st To October 31st: Mule Rides Depart at 8.00 am and 12.00 pm (Must Check-in 1.5 Hours Before)
November 1st To February 28th (or 29th): Mule Rides Depart At 10.00 am (Must Check-in 1.5 Hours Before)
Cost: $155.77 Per Person (Tax Inclusive)
Reservations: Call 1-303-297-2757 or Toll-Free Within the United States at 1-888-297-2757
Weight Limit: Riders Must Weigh Less than 225 Pound or 102 Kg Fully Dressed

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Grand Canyon Apache Stables

Another South Rim option is Grand Canyon Apache Stables. While their website may be little more than a single page, they are a great option for short tours on the South Rim if one can't book with Grand Canyon Lodges.

They offer only two ride options: a one-hour ride and a two-hour ride. With them, enjoy a stunning stroll through the pines of the beautiful Kaibab National Forest.

One-Hour Ride: $58.50 (Plus Tax)
Two-Hour Ride: $110.50 (Plus Tax)

Note: As At the Time Of Writing Campfire Tail and Wagon Ride Are Not Available

Ordinarily, they offer a guided one-hour campfire trail ride that ventures to the wagon ride at the campfire, everyone returns by wagon. The horse-wagon ride takes riders to the campfire and back by wagon. Bring one's own food (none is provided).

Grand Canyon Mule Rides

Over at the North Rim, the company offering mule rides is Grand Canyon Mule Rides. They offer a choice of one one-hour trip and two three-hour trips (unfortunately no overnight trips).

Three-Hour Mule Ride to Supai Tunnel

This ride descends some 2,300 feet following the North Kaibab trail to the stunning Supai Tunnel