Horseshoe Bend Half Day / Grand Canyon South Rim

Question

Hoping for advise.

We booked the 8am Horseshoe Bend half day rafting trip late June with our 12 year old. This will put us on river from 9-12.

- Is it ill advised for older folks this time of year/day with the heat (contemplating inviting my parents)? - Would you recommend this trip for a 12 year old?

-Would you recommend viewing Horseshoe Bend from up above or checking out Antelope Canyon the same day after rafting trip? Or is that just too much for one day considering the heat?

What would you suggest doing with a full day to spend in the South Rim of the Grand Canyon the day following this rafting trip?

Answer

Late June in Page can be very hot, with daytime temperatures often reaching the high 90s to over 100°F (37–40°C). An 8am start for a Horseshoe Bend half-day rafting trip is actually ideal since you’ll be on the river during the coolest part of the morning, and the water will provide natural cooling.

Regarding participants of different ages:

For older adults, the early start helps mitigate heat exposure, but they should be in reasonably good health, able to handle getting in and out of the boat, and be comfortable sitting for a few hours. Make sure they have sun protection, hats, sunglasses, and plenty of water.
For a 12-year-old, the trip is usually very enjoyable. Children this age can typically handle the activity as long as they are supervised and wearing the provided safety gear. The rapids on a half-day trip are generally mild and suitable for families.

After the rafting trip:

Visiting Horseshoe Bend from the overlook after rafting is feasible. The trail is short (about 1.5 miles round trip) but can be strenuous in the heat. Carry plenty of water and consider hiking in lightweight clothing and supportive shoes.
Adding an Antelope Canyon tour the same day is possible, but consider that the canyon tours often run midday when temperatures are highest, and the experience can be crowded and require some walking. For older adults, doing both in one day may be tiring and less enjoyable.
Many families prefer to do Horseshoe Bend in the morning or late afternoon for lighting and comfort, and Antelope Canyon on a separate day if possible to avoid heat stress.

For a full day at the Grand Canyon South Rim following your Page trip, you can plan a mix of scenic overlooks, short walks, and easy hikes:

Drive along Desert View Drive, stopping at major viewpoints such as Navajo Point, Lipan Point, and Desert View Watchtower. These are easily accessible and allow for flexible pacing.
Visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center and Mather Point for orientation and short walks.
Consider a short, easy hike on the Rim Trail near Grand Canyon Village, which is paved in some sections and stroller-friendly if needed.
If your group is active, a short hike down the Bright Angel Trail to a rest house and back can provide a closer-to-the-canyon experience without committing to a full descent.
End the day with sunset at Hopi Point or Yaki Point, which are accessible by car or shuttle and offer spectacular views.

Overall, the rafting trip with a 12-year-old is highly recommended in late June, and older adults can join if they are comfortable with moderate activity and sun exposure. For the same day, consider limiting activities to Horseshoe Bend and resting afterward, saving Antelope Canyon for another day if possible. The South Rim visit the next day can be flexible, focusing on scenic drives and shorter hikes to accommodate all ages.

Horseshoe Bend Half Day / Grand Canyon South Rim

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