Getting Registered
In 2011, the Grand Canyon Stock Use Plan, limited commercial mules using the Bright Angel and South Kaibab Trail to 10 per day, so planning ahead is key to securing preferred dates. As we wanted to ride the 1st part of September in 2018, I called on September 1, in 2017; the 1st day reservations for September the following year would be taken. The Park, has since gone to a lottery system, which is similar, but more readily directed towards on-line applications.
Through the end of this calendar year, prices are $599.81 for the first person or $1,050.62 for two. Each additional person is $463.81 – so riding with a group can save you money – plus it’s more fun! Rates will increase, slightly on January 1st. The night before our ride, we stayed at the Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins, located next to the corrals where we would meet in the morning, which added $123 to our total. While you are charged upfront for your reservation, if you have to cancel for any reason, it is fully refundable.
10 / Sport and Trail Magazine
or $1,050.62 for two. Each additional person is $463.81 – so riding with a group can save you money – plus it’s more fun! Rates will increase, slightly on January 1st.
The night before our ride, we stayed at the Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins, located next to the corrals where we would meet in the morning, which added $123 to our total. While you are charged upfront for your reservation, if you have to cancel for any reason, it is fully refundable.
While all-skill levels of riders are welcome, before a reservation can be confirmed, all riders must attest that they are in good physical condition, weigh less than 200 pounds, fully dressed (this is a must); must be at least 4 feet, 7 inches tall; be able to speak and understand fluent English; and agree to ride in long sleeve shirts, long pants, hats and close-toed shoes. Also riders cannot be pregnant.
Snacks and cold drinks (including beer) can be purchased in the Canteen as well as postcards and souvenirs. It is recommended that you bring cash as the credit card machine doesn’t always work with the limited satellite reception.
The suspension bridge does not swing in the wind. It is narrow, but sturdy. The mules didn’t give it a second thought.