
From South Rim: Grand Canyon Spirit Helicopter Tour
- Small group
- Duration: 45 minutes
From
$299
per person
Whether you see it from above by helicopter, below by boat, or choose to tour its hiking trails by foot, Arizona's Grand Canyon is one of North America's most breathtaking sights. Here's a step-by-step guide on how it came to be!
When the Kaibab plateau was forced upwards 35 million years ago, the ancestor of what is now the Colorado River was diverted away from its previous route towards the Pacific Ocean.
The river's new route saw it empty into the Gulf of Mexico. Volcanic activity caused this river to become obstructed as well, creating a vast lake.
Eventually a path was eroded through the Kaibab plateau, accelerated by the last ice ages, and the old Pacific-ward segment of river was reconnected to the rest of it.
With a steeper route heading west now open, the waters of the ancient Lake Bidahochi were drained, leaving just a deep crevice through which the Little Colorado River now runs.
Though the bulk of it formed during this epoch, continued erosion and rock falls have expanded the canyon further still. It may look very different in another 35 million years!
April to early June is a great time to visit the Grand Canyon, arriving just in time to make the most of the rising temperatures before the intense heat and bursts of rain that come with summer. September and early November are also good times to go if you want to avoid the peak-season crowds before it gets too cold!
The weather can be unpredictable so pack rain gear even if it's gorgeous when you set out. In summer, the cool canyon breeze can also disguise the heat of the sun's rays, so be sure to wear sunscreen even if it doesn't feel necessary. Bring plenty of water, too, of course, and light snacks. Trust us, you'll be better off topping your energy up as you go rather than setting out after a heavy meal!
When it's hot, cover up in light, airy fabrics rather than revealing tops and shorts, as you'll be highly exposed to the sun. Sunhats and sunglasses are also a must in summer, and comfortable walking shoes are essential at any time of year. Make sure your feet don't slip around in them either, or the steep canyon trails may result in bloody toes!
Our guide, "Kevin" was very knowledgeable. We appreciate that he took us to the parts of the Grand Canyon that were not busy. With the hundreds of cars coming into the park we were concerned that we'd be shoulder to shoulder on the rim of the canyon, but he knew just where to take us to see the beautiful sites and no crowds. That knowledge of where to go to avoid the crowds, but still all the amazing views was worth the price of the tour. Our small group enhanced the experience. We are glad that we purchased our tour. I had a Senior Pass to the park and could have gotten into the park for free, but I chose to purchase the guided tour of the canyon and it was worth the price.
This trip was amazing. The company made it so easy! We were picked up in a Mercedes convertible van, stopped at the Cameron Trading Post, and headed to the Grand Canyon. Riding through the park with the top down was so fun and had the best views. Sheldon, our guide was so funny and knowledgeable. He really made the trip one to remember. I would highly suggest this trip and tour to anyone! It made our visit easy and enjoyable.
Our tour guide Walter made all the difference in that trip - he is funny, well versed and knowledgeable on the history of Vegas and the trip itself, polite but at the same time comical- made the trip though long feels like it went so quick you want more from him- I will do it again anytime . We celebrated our 31st wedding anniversary that trip made it so memorable and fun ❤️❤️❤️
We took a tour with Sweetours. It was great! The tour guide, Dirk, was funny and knowledgeable. The Grand Canyon was beautiful! We did not get to stop at the Hoover Dam because they are not accepting large parties at this time due to Covid. we did get a view of it on the ride back, though. All in all, it was a great tour. I would recommend.
Steve was absolutely phenomenal!! He is a great tour guide!! Very patient and considerate. The covid restrictions did interfere with the tour. It was an amazing experience! We are so grateful to Steve and his abundance of knowledge. Not to mention, his hospitality is unmatched!! Basically Steve is truly a treasure. Thank you!