Summary
Planning a trip to the Grand Canyon in 2026? There’s more to experience than just the scenic overlooks. From horseback riding through the Kaibab National Forest to hiking, historic towns, helicopter tours, and unforgettable sunsets, the Grand Canyon region offers activities for every type of traveler. This guide highlights the top 5 activities to do near the Grand Canyon, helping visitors plan an adventure that’s memorable, relaxing, and truly one of a kind.
Post Highlights
- Guided horseback riding through Kaibab National Forest with experienced wranglers
- Peaceful forest trails perfect for families, beginners, and first-time riders
- Hiking options for all skill levels near the Grand Canyon and surrounding areas
- Explore Route 66 charm and historic towns like Williams, Arizona
- Scenic helicopter tours offering aerial views of the canyon
- Sunrise and sunset viewpoints for iconic Grand Canyon photos
- Popular activities book quickly — planning ahead is highly recommended
Horseback Riding Through Kaibab National Forest
If you’re visiting the Grand Canyon area and want a truly memorable experience, horseback riding just outside the park is a must-do. At Grand Canyon Trail Rides, you’ll enjoy guided rides through the lush Kaibab National Forest — with options ranging from half-hour root beer wagon rides to longer 1½-hour or 2-hour scenic trail rides. Whether you’re a first-time rider or have experience in the saddle, our gentle horses and expert wranglers make it fun for the whole family.
Tip: Be sure to visit our site and book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to reserve your spot!
Hit the Trails: Hiking & Nature Walks
The area around the Grand Canyon and Kaibab National Forest is a hiker’s paradise. With trails ranging from easy scenic walks to more challenging backcountry routes, you’ll find something that fits every skill level.
- Widforss Trail — A forested trail leading to spectacular viewpoints.
- Rim trails at the South Rim — Great for sunrise or sunset views and panoramic canyon vistas.
- Numerous paths in the Kaibab National Forest — Explore ponderosa pine forests and wildlife habitats.
Whether you’re doing a short stroll or an epic trek, hiking near the Grand Canyon gives you a deeper connection to the landscape.
Explore the Historic Town of Williams, AZ
Just a short drive from the Grand Canyon, Williams, Arizona offers a classic Western experience. Known as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon, Williams has vintage Route 66 charm, neon signs, quirky shops, and nostalgic diners.
One of the highlights here is the Grand Canyon Railway — a scenic train journey that takes you straight to the South Rim while offering onboard entertainment like mock train robberies and historic commentary.
Helicopter Tours & Aerial Adventures
For a bird’s-eye perspective of the iconic canyon, consider booking a helicopter tour from Tusayan or nearby Grand Canyon Village. These flights offer breathtaking aerial views of the canyon’s depth, layers of geologic history, and the winding Colorado River. Helicopter tours are a favorite activity for first-time visitors or anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Scenic Drives & Lookouts
Renting a car and exploring the area by road is a classic way to see the Grand Canyon region. You can stop at multiple viewpoints and scenic overlooks along the South Rim scenic drive, enjoy picnics with canyon views, or take day trips to nearby sights.
If you’re a bit more adventurous, consider specialty tours like Hummer or off-road excursions that take you to lesser-seen lookout points.
Bonus Activity: Local Wildlife & Forest Exploration
The Kaibab National Forest surrounds the North and South rims of the Grand Canyon and is bursting with many kinds of beautiful botanicals and thriving wildlife. There are many opportunities to experience the vastness of the Arizona landscape as Kaibab National Forest offers a range of picture-perfect scenery from prairies to peaks. With expansive grasslands and canyons, you will never get bored exploring the Grand Canyon area of the Kaibab National Forest.
Plan Your Trip & Book Your Horseback Ride Ahead!
No matter how you choose to explore the Grand Canyon area, planning ahead will make your visit smoother and more memorable. If you’re looking for a family-friendly, unforgettable adventure, don’t miss out on horseback riding through Kaibab National Forest with Grand Canyon Trail Rides.
Be sure to visit our site to check availability and book your experience today — we can’t wait to share the beauty of the canyon’s surroundings with you!
Do you ride horses inside the Grand Canyon?
No. Our horseback rides take place in the beautiful Kaibab National Forest, just outside the Grand Canyon National Park. This allows for a peaceful, scenic experience without the crowds, while still being close to the canyon.
Is horseback riding near the Grand Canyon good for beginners?
Yes! Our rides are beginner-friendly and guided by experienced wranglers. The horses are calm, well-trained, and carefully matched to each rider’s experience level.
How long are the horseback riding tours?
We offer a variety of ride options, including short family-friendly rides and longer scenic trail rides. This makes it easy to choose an experience that fits your schedule and comfort level.
What other activities can I do near the Grand Canyon besides hiking?
In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy horseback riding, helicopter tours, scenic drives, historic Route 66 towns, forest walks, and family-friendly attractions near the canyon.
When is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon in 2026?
Spring through fall are the most popular seasons, with summer being the busiest. Booking activities like horseback riding in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel months.
Do I need to book activities ahead of time?
Yes. Many Grand Canyon activities fill up quickly, especially during holidays and peak seasons. We recommend you visit our site to check availability and book in advance to ensure you don’t miss out.
