Under Canvas has several glamping sites in prime locations in the U.S., including Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore and Zion. Therefore, it was inevitable that they’d set up camp by one of the most sought-out natural sights of America: the Grand Canyon. Situated near the famed chasm’s south rim in Valle, Arizona, Under Canvas Grand Canyon provides a more bucolic, yet refined experience than any of the area’s accommodations.
A Chic Check-In Experience
Drive along a red rock lined driveway, leading you away from town and into the countryside of brush, pinon and juniper trees. Check in and meet the resort team at the impressive lobby tent. The lobby has a chic interior design—furnished by West Elm, no less. You could easily think you’re in the foyer of a cosmopolitan brick-and-mortar establishment.
Farm to Fork
The camp resort’s restaurant serves gourmet meals al fresco. Options range from vegetarian with a “farm-to-fork” philosophy to pulled pork sandwiches and smoked chicken with rice dishes. The food is often paired with beers, wines and occasionally live music. Despite these touches of elegance, the outdoor camping experience isn’t lost; s’mores are served around the communal campfire each night. Under Canvas even prepares lunches to bring along on various adventures—just make sure to order the night before.
The Tents
While not as big as the other resorts in the Under Canvas portfolio, the Grand Canyon location doesn’t skimp on luxury, with comfortable beds and fine linens. Of the 25 glamping sites available, there are five set-ups to choose from with varied group sizes and price points. Three have king beds with private bathrooms, wood stoves and private decks—the Suite Tent, Deluxe, and Stargazer—while the other two luxury Safari Tent options share a communal bathhouse. Rest (and shower) assured that this isn’t your high school locker room shower facility; the bathhouse is first class, with all the comforts of a fine hotel bathroom, only shared.
Disconnect and Reconnect
While each glamping site is far enough from each other for privacy and intimacy, it’s easy to meet and befriend other couples or families—wandering kids typically find each other. The grounds are intentionally WiFi free, so that you can disconnect from the world, enjoy your companions and admire the awe-inspiring nature. Don’t fret; there’s still cell phone reception, which you can use to call the front desk at the lobby tent.
Adventures of Grandeur
The Grand Canyon’s south rim is only about a half-hour drive away. It is world-renowned for its larger-than-life scenery and geological magnificence.
Go on your own and heed the trusted advice of any of the friendly NPS rangers in the national park. They can recommend hiking and biking trails or prime photography vantage points. There are alo several outfitters in the area that provide day tours. Whitewater river rafting is available with plenty of advance notice.
All the Adventure, None of the Planning
Of course, the team at Under Canvas Grand Canyon will set you up with the local tour partners. Alternatively, you can reserve one of their custom tour packages: the Adventure Package includes guided hiking and driving tours, while the Expedition Package adds mountain biking into the itinerary. Or, book à la carte activities (subject to availability). Helicopter tours over the Grand Canyon or horseback riding in nearby Kaibab National Forest rank high on visitors’ to-do lists.
Whatever adventure you decide, you’ll experience this one-of-a kind landscape. It is truly exhilarating, even if you just stand still on the edge and simply gaze upon one of the wonders of the world.
Serenity Under the Stars
The stargazing is especially spectacular in this part of the world thanks to the lack of light pollution. Some argue it’s the best stargazing across all of the Under Canvas properties. You might even spot a shooting star in the nighttime sky.
Sunrise yoga classes are offered many mornings at their yoga and event platform. You will leave this place feeling refreshed, with renewed energy. Or, you can always load up your cooler, pick up your lunch, and do it all over again.
