If you are planning to visit Grand Canyon on December,expect it to be cold and icy,yes it is lesser crowd than the peak season but the climate might pose some challenges for you.
Grand Canyon is my must visit place on earth before I die.I couldnt possibly go there during the peak season which is summer because of my job so I did it during the winter times.
I flew my way all the way to Flagstaff.There,I spend days to prepare for my said to be DIY hike of the grand canyon.I travelled alone and mentally prepare myself for it.Flagstaff is snowy during this month and to get around the town,you could walk,take the local bus or by using grab and Lyft.I stayed on downtown flagstaff area and you will see a lot of pubs,shops selling hiking gears and restaurants around.
In order for me to get to Grand Canyon,a stay in flagstaff is necessary.To reach GC from flagstaff,I booked this transportation service online called Groome transportation. They will pick you up on your hotel in Flastaff and drop you in Maswik Lodge,inside the grand canyon National park
Public buses going to Sedona from Flagstaff is not operating in the winter.Neither Groome transportation is going that way.I went to the information to ask how to get to Sedona and they gave me a number that i can call which i need to book in advance.Another way is to rent a car.
Groome transport will drop you off the in the parking area of the Maswik Lodge.You should arrange a transfer to pick you up from Maswik to your hotel beforehand.Or,you can ask for an assistance in the lobby to call a taxi for you going to your hotel.The free shuttles dont let anyone to ride with them with a luggage.
I stayed in Yavapai lodge.They do not have wifi on their rooms so you have to consider that when booking. The area was all covered with thick blanket of snow during my stay.I have to walk my way outdoor from the lobby/restaurant to my room.The is consist of several buildings apart from one another. The lodge and the main lobby are separate.
a bank are on the same area.The general store sells trail food,clothing and hiking gears.You can rent a trekking pole from there.
Maps are available here.They have water machine and a microwave. They have tavern and a spacious dining hall. Try their Elk burger,
There are free shuttles roaming inside the park to give you free rides but not for your luggage.You should be or else they will not let you inside.Shuttles are classified by routes.The drop off and pick up points are located near the parks attractions.Free shuttles operates within a certain time of the day.At night time,there will no more free shuttles. If you need a ride especially in the night,just ask the lobby of any hotel to call a taxi for you and they are happy to help.
During winter,some of the routes are closed like the one going to the Desert view. Its frustrating that i wasnt able to go there.
the rim to colorado river and going back and it is not easy,it is grueling!IBring enough food and water.There is a source of potable water once you reached Indian garden campground, the halfway of the trek.I left the rim icy and snowing and I reached the campground without any trace of snow. so just imagine the drop of temperature is.
It is highly to stay at least a night on the camp or in the Phantom ranch (must book in advance) for a more gratifying hiking experience.
Angel bright lodge is offering a mule ride going down the rim instead of hiking.So better check with them .
Meet up with Groome transpo is on Maswik Lodge.To go there,you must ask for a transfer from your hotel lobby.Its free.
