How to Plan a Camping Honeymoon at the Grand Canyon

By eHow Weddings Editor

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Plan your honeymoon at a beautiful and diverse American destination - the Grand Canyon. The Colorado River cuts through the rock and soil and takes rafters with it as hikers and mule teams ply the canyon's steep switchback trails.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Athletic Socks
Hiking Boots
Airline Tickets
National Park Passes
Binoculars
Backpacking Tent
Backpacks
Camping Gear
Camping Stoves
Sleeping Bags

Step1

See the Grand Canyon at least once in your lifetime - and what better time than your honeymoon? It will please the adventurer, the observer and the romantic.

Step2

Visit in the summer months for guaranteed heat, but keep in mind that the best hiking and camping is done in the fall and spring.

Step3

Just a short drive from Flagstaff, Arizona, or approximately 6 hours from Phoenix, the south rim is your best starting point. Fly into Phoenix on virtually any major U.S. carrier, then take a hopper flight to Flagstaff or drive on your own.

Step4

Stock up on supplies or get a bite to eat at one of the many south rim restaurants and inns.

Step5

Study up on the region at the Yavapai Geological Museum so you know what rocks you're walking on and looking at.

Step6

Take a mule ride to your campsite with the Fred Harvey Company (520-638-2401); it's $100 for the day, or $252 with an overnight at the Phantom Ranch in the bottom of the canyon.

Step7

Celebrate your commitment to each other by challenging each other to hike the Bright Angel and Kaibab Trails - both long and steep, but well worth the effort.

Step8

Rest at the top of the south rim at the Bright Angel Lodge (303-297-2757) in rustic cabins for $80 to $100, or in basic rooms for $45 to $60.

Step9

Raft the rapids of the Colorado with a variety of tour operators.

Tips & Warnings

Wear good hiking boots that are broken in to prevent blisters, and bring extra socks.
Bring a warm sleeping bag and coat in case a cold front settles in.
Beware of packing excess weight if you plan to hike a lot.
Pack it in, pack it out.
Dehydration and exhaustion are common, so drink lots of water and rest up.
Beware of sudden rain storms in winter, which can create flash floods.