Location: South rim of the Grand Canyon, Arizona
Getting there: Googlemap from Las Vegas to the park
On the way: About 20 minutes outside of Vegas you'll reach Hoover Dam. A couple miles before the dam you'll pass Boulder Dam Brewing Company. Drop in for a pint or a sampler, or even lunch, then continue to the dam and beyond.
Background: Grand Canyon National Park highlights the spectacular canyon views of one our great national treasures. If you haven't seen it, go. Go now. If you have, you'll probably want to go back sometime. I was there in mid-October, which was an excellent time for hiking.
The Hike: My recommended hike is Bright Angel Trail. I spent most of a day going from the rim to Plateau Point, a descent of 3,200 vertical feet and six miles one way. Of course as with any trail into the canyon, it's the hike back up that's the hard part. Allow the full day for this one. If you don't want to go all the way to the Point, there are several spots along the way that are good turn around points. Still I'd suggest even in the cooler weather of October taking a gallon of water and sports drinks per person if you're hiking the full distance.
Along many parts of the rim, the final section of path out to Plateau Point is visible.
I enjoyed amazing views for most of the hike. After awhile I noticed a strip of green below amidst the desert landscape that's typical of the canyon.
I was looking down on Indian Garden campground, an oasis in the desert created by the presence of a small stream. It's 4 1/2 miles into the canyon and is a very popular spot with backpackers. Except in winter, drinking water is available here too.
The hike culminates in a wonderful overlook of the Colorado River from Plateau Point.
I didn't want to leave the Point, but eventually the desire to be back before dark motivated me to start the long trek upward. I staggered back to the rim 7 1/2 hours after I began the hike, exhausted and sore. I needed a drink!
The Pub: Grand Canyon Brewing Company
Location: Williams, Arizona
Getting there: Grand Canyon National Park to the brewpub - It's about a 1 hour drive.
Atmosphere: Grand Canyon is a small brewpub with the brewing equipment located right behind the bar. Stools cut from logs give the seating at the long bar some character. The single pool table stayed busy while I was there. The pub seems to be mainly a locals hangout, which is fine. The locals are friendly and the bartender was pleasant.
The Beer: On my visit they were offering eight house beers on tap. Of course I got the sampler. All the beers were session style brews with around 5-6% alcohol and tended toward the light side. My favorite was the pale ale and I'd also recommend the pilsner if it's available. Stay away from the helles.
Overall: Grand Canyon Brewing Company's beers are just average for the most part, but this friendly pub makes up for it with local charm. Be sure to stop by if you're visiting the Grand Canyon! There's also plenty of lodging in Wiliams at much better rates than right outside the park, plus you're not far from Flagstaff (about 30 miles) where you can find more good breweries.
