Divided by the Grand Canyon into two distinct ecosystems, this 1.6-million-acre forest offers a peaceful escape from the park madness. Thick stands of ponderosa dominate the higher elevations, while piñon and juniper create a fragrant backdrop further down. Sightings of elk, mule, deer, turkeys, coyotes and even mountain lions and black bears are all possible.
Hwy 64/180 slices through 60 miles of forest between the South Rim and Williams, offering access to outdoor recreation at its finest. There's a ranger station in Tusayan, but the best place to pick up maps and information is at the visitor center in Williams.
