Grand Canyon Vacation suggestions

[Kajtek1]

Originally Posted by millvalleyca

Thanks for the replies and suggestions.
It will have to be during summer vacation. Too hot?

Well... it was 20 years ago when I camped with our ClassC motorhome at Grand Canyon campgrounds, but I still remember. It was "summer of the Century" with 125F mornings in Las Vegas. We drove to Grand Canyon and went on the tour at about 90F at the rim. On hot evening I went ON the bed naked.
Waked up at about midnight due to cold and went under the blanket.
Waked up again due to more cold at 2 AM and put second blanket on the top of the first one.
Waked up again at 3 AM due to more cold and tried to fire up the furnace, but gave up after I figure out I would have to raise a bed with my wife on it.
Waked up again at 4 AM due to extreme cold and regardless common sense lighted up 2 burners on the range for comfort heating.
High elevation have its privileges
I just come back to Bay Area from Las Vegas vacations. Since my family has fear of heights, I purchased single tour to West Rim with entrance to Sky Walk for a total of $164.
Walking on the glass thousands feet in the air is unforgettable. You can't camp there, but is something to consider.

[hazegrey]

If you do go to Arches on the way, I recommend the federal campgrounds up hy 128. We were there last May and they were not crowded then but school was still in session. Also the temperatures were good. I would not go there in the high summer due to heat. R/

[SteSpot]

Be advised that the road from Lone Pine to Death Valley includes portions that are an 8% grade (it doesn't sound like a high pass but you are going to below sea level). Also Death Valley in the summer is very hot. paula

[nilesrob]

Try and catch the Grand Canyon at sunset... you'll be breathless. Photos just don't do justice, but here are a couple.

[SteSpot]

Thanks for posting.....I have hiked down to Phantom Ranch at the bottom and out two times and both times I am afraid I spent a lot more time looking at where I was stepping than admiring the sunsets....thanks for sharing. paula