Head for Grand Canyon Lodge if you’re interested in a mule tour or need to make shuttle arrangements for the South Rim or North Kaibab trailhead. The hiker shuttle to the North Kaibab Trail (1.5 miles away) is available twice daily in the morning, with reservations required 24 hours in advance. The cost is $7 per person and $4 for each additional person, payable at the lodge’s front desk.

If you’re interested in a guided trip or a learning vacation, research your options and plan ahead. Grand Canyon Field Institute (P.O. Box 399, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023, 928/638-2485, toll-free 866/471-4435, http://grandcanyon.org/fieldinstitute) offers a wide variety of classes, including photography, art, archaeology, wilderness studies, and geology. Difficulty ranges from single-day introductory classes to multiday white-water rafting and backpacking trips. Some sessions are designed for women only, and several family-friendly trips are offered.

The Museum of Northern Arizona (3101 N. Fort Valley Rd., Flagstaff, AZ 86001, 928/774-5213, www.musnaz.org) offers expertly guided adventures with a natural or cultural history focus, including rim-to-rim backpacks, river rafting, and bike trips.