For participants that registered for the Grand Canyon Overflight: Driving approximately 16 miles roundtrip; about 1/2 hour. Getting on/off small plane; the scenic flight aboard the “Vistaliner” lasts about 45 minutes. The aircraft can comfortably carry 19 passengers. For those not going on the flight: Mostly free day; minimal walking throughout the day during group activities; opportunities for more dependent on personal interest.
At the lodge dining facility, the breakfast buffet includes an egg dish, pancakes, breakfast meats, oatmeal, yogurt, and fresh fruit, plus milk, juice, coffee, tea, water.
For participants who signed up for the scenic canyon flight when registering for the program, we will transport to the Grand Canyon Airport to board the dual engine “Vistaliner” aircraft and set off for an aerial tour of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The many hued spires, buttes and temples and the Colorado River will be spread out below you in dramatic fashion. The flight will make a broad loop that will include a swing past the forested North Rim. For those who chose not to participate in the scenic flight, enjoy a day of Free Time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. A discussion and handout on free time activities will be included, with directions to many of Grand Canyon Village’s famous landmarks. Grand Canyon Village is home to the Kolb Brothers Photo Studio and many buildings designed by Fred Harvey designer Mary Jane Colter including the Bright Angel Lodge, Lookout Studio, and the Hopi House. To the east is the El Tovar Hotel, one of the great lodges in the National Park system.
At the Maswik Café, which is conveniently located near the Grand Canyon Village and scenic viewpoint shuttle buses, we’ll choose plated meals using vouchers in a food court style. There will be a wide variety of entrées and sides to choose from, plus soft drinks, coffee, tea, water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Free Time on your own to see and do what interests you most. You may wish to visit the historic Grand Canyon Village, use the Hermit's Rest West Rim shuttle, see Yavapai Point, or go on rim walks, all popular activities.
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. There are a number of dining venues to choose from in the park. If you are interested in dining at the El Tovar Lodge for dinner note that this is the one restaurant that requires reservations for dinner. Call 928-638-2631 and ask for El Tovar dining room. No reservations needed for breakfast or lunch.
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.