Grand Canyon ATV Tour + Horseback Riding Tour

Traveling to the Grand Canyon is often on everyone’s bucket list, but how you experience this natural wonder can make all the difference. This particular tour, offered by Grand Canyon Helicopter Adventures, blends adventure, scenic beauty, and authenticity into a full-day excursion from Las Vegas. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews, itinerary, and features paint a compelling picture of what travelers can expect.

What immediately catches our eye are the combination of off-road ATV riding and horseback riding, providing both adrenaline and a taste of the Old West. A standout feature is the inclusion of round-trip transportation from Las Vegas, making it a convenient option for visitors staying in the city. Plus, the lunch and soft drinks add value to the experience, turning it into a true day trip adventure.

One possible consideration is the group size (max 14 travelers), which keeps things intimate but might mean planning ahead, especially during peak seasons. Also, some reviews mention that the ATV ride might be “too slow” for thrill-seekers, and there’s a note that horseback ride cancellations can happen, depending on availability. Still, the overall rating of 5.0 from 23 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate suggest this experience resonates well with most travelers.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures, enjoys new experiences, and wants to see the Grand Canyon from a different perspective, this tour could be a fantastic choice. It suits those who appreciate a mix of excitement and authentic exploration, and who are comfortable with group activities and basic safety equipment like helmets.

Key Points

• The tour combines ATV riding and horseback riding for a unique canyon experience
• Includes round-trip transportation from Las Vegas, making logistics easier
• Offers lunch, soft drinks, and photo stops for good value
• Suitable for all experience levels, including beginners, with safety gear provided
• The tour is limited to 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour

Discovering the Details: What You Can Expect

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The adventure starts with a pickup in Las Vegas, a real boon for those who don’t want to fuss with rental cars or complicated directions. After an approximately 8-hour day, including travel time, you’ll make a quick photo stop at the Hoover Dam. This brief visit offers a chance to snap some iconic pictures of the dam’s impressive structure and take in the engineering marvel from the Hoover Dam Bypass bridge.

Next, your journey takes you to the Grand Canyon, where the main event unfolds: a 1-hour ATV ride and a 1-hour horseback ride. The ATV tour lets you explore the canyon’s rim and nearby trails, offering a more hands-on approach to experiencing the landscape. Reviewers have noted that the ATV ride is generally “fine,” but some found it “too slow,” so if you’re after adrenaline, clarify the trail options beforehand. The horseback riding provides a different, more relaxed perspective, allowing you to experience the canyon’s tranquility and natural beauty at a gentle pace.

Lunch is included, along with soda and soft drinks, giving you energy for the day’s activities. The meals are designed to keep travelers fueled without interrupting the adventure.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour’s appeal lies in its balance of adventure and accessibility. Beginners and those with limited outdoor experience will appreciate that safety equipment like helmets is provided, and the tours are suitable for all levels. The small group size ensures that you won’t feel lost in a crowd, fostering a more personal connection with guides who tend to be attentive.

However, travelers should note that horseback riding is subject to availability and might be canceled due to logistics, which some reviews have highlighted. Meredith_F’s review mentions her horseback ride was canceled, underscoring the importance of setting expectations and possibly having a backup plan if horseback riding is a must-have for your trip.

The Value Proposition

At $550 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it offers a comprehensive experience that covers transportation, activities, lunch, and soft drinks. Considering the cost of individual activities and transport, the overall value is decent, especially for those wanting a full-day, authentic adventure rather than just a quick sightseeing trip.

Practical Considerations

• Booking in advance is recommended, with many travelers booking about 16 days ahead.
• The tour runs approximately 8 hours, meaning you’ll need a full day free.
• Pickup service simplifies logistics, especially in a city like Las Vegas where transportation can be tricky.
• The group size is capped at 14, fostering a more intimate atmosphere but also requiring early reservation.
• Helmets and safety gear are mandatory; if you have long hair or religious headwear, check if you can wear the helmets comfortably.
• Gratuities are not included, so plan accordingly if you feel the guides provided excellent service.

Authenticity and Unique Experiences

What sets this tour apart is the chance to see the Grand Canyon from ground level via ATV and horseback, contrasting with the more common helicopter or bus tours. This approach provides a more tactile and personal experience with the landscape. The photo stop at Hoover Dam offers a quick but iconic glimpse of another American engineering marvel, adding a bit of variety.

From reviews, we learn that the views are spectacular — you’ll love the scenery from the rim of the canyon. Travelers have appreciated the “unique and thrilling” aspect of exploring the canyon on ATV and horseback, which makes this trip more than just a drive-by sightseeing tour.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure-minded travelers looking for a full-day escape from Las Vegas, who want to combine adrenaline with scenic beauty. It’s ideal if you enjoy outdoor activities but aren’t necessarily looking for extreme thrill-seeking. The inclusion of lunch and round-trip transportation makes it a practical choice for those who prefer a guided, hassle-free day.

It’s particularly appealing for small groups or families who enjoy sharing outdoor pursuits or for anyone wanting a more authentic, hands-on way to experience the Grand Canyon. While the cost is higher than a simple bus tour, the opportunity to explore on ATV and horseback, plus the convenience of pickup and drop-off, offers tangible value.

That said, if your main goal is adrenaline or horseback riding is a must, double-check the availability before booking. For travelers seeking a well-rounded, engaging day with both scenic views and physical activity, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation from Las Vegas included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip pickup and drop-off from Las Vegas, which simplifies planning and saves time.

How long is the entire tour?
The experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time, activities, and breaks.

Can I participate if I am a beginner?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for all experience levels. Helmets are provided, and guides will ensure safety.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are there any restrictions on horse or ATV riding?
Helmets are mandatory, and if your hair cannot fit under a helmet or if you can’t remove religious headwear, you might be unable to participate.

Is food included?
Yes, lunch and soft drinks are included in the tour price.

What if my horseback ride gets canceled?
Some reviews have noted cancellations due to logistics; it’s advisable to confirm availability when booking and have a backup plan if horseback riding is a priority.

To sum it up, this Grand Canyon ATV and horseback tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, authenticity, and scenic beauty. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to experience the canyon from a ground-level perspective, combining thrill with natural splendor. While it’s not the cheapest option, the inclusion of transport, meals, and guided activities makes it a well-rounded way to spend a day outside Las Vegas, especially if you’re after a more personal and engaging adventure.