When visiting the South rim of the Grand Canyon, is there any other way to get down into the canyon, other than walking or riding a donkey? The same question would apply for getting back up?

They are mules, actually, not donkeys and I don't know of another way from the south rim other than by foot or by mule. Personally, I'd rather do it on my feet than on the mule. You don't have to go all the way down to get a good feel for the canyon by the way.

Bright Angel trail is an easy trail to hike with a couple of convenient destinations...rest station #1 just a little ways down, Indian Gardens about a third of the way down, or Plateau Point, further still. On Plateau Point you are close enough to be able to hear the roar of the Colorado and you'll get a dramatic view of the canyon and the river. We've done all 3 of these as day hikes on various trips...have yet to go all the way to the bottom but have absolutely loved every hike we've made.

My husband took a rafting trip that ended at the trailhead to walk up.

When this same question about "donkeys" was asked in VirtualTourist.Com three days ago, I noted:

"If you want to go into the Canyon; you either hike, ride the mules, take a helicopter to Havasu, or drive to the Hualapai Lodge."

I did forget you can take a three day boat ride into the Canyon and then hike out.

If you fall off your ass, a helicopter will take you out.

What is the difference between a donkey and an ass? Any zoology buffs here? I mean animals only, not your sitting part.

If a helicoptor has to airlift you out, you have to pay for it.

A donkey is an ass and a mule is the offspring of a male donkey and female horse.

Dear Faina:

For more mule info, head to Mule Days in Bishop, CA over Memorial Day weekend. Every kind of mule you can imagine, including mule races!!

MY