The Hualapai Lodge, on historic route 66

Route 66 was once known as "Will Rogers Highway" and referred to as the Main street of America. Opened in 1926, it became, one of the most famous roads - traversing many states as it ran from Chicago, thru Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California, ending in Los Angeles. Over it's period of use it had many changes, making it faster and safer to travel, detouring around cities as they became congested, and taking the end of the route further to Santa Monica.

It was a major route for those who came west, bringing business to the communities it passed through, but it was eventually removed from the United States Highway System in 1985. Portions of the route still exist - in many states it is referred to as "National Scenic Byway" - in Arizona it is referred to as "Historic Route 66" and it connects with California's designation "State Route 66".

So popular was the the route, a song was written about it in 1946 - "Get your kicks on route 66" - which later became the theme song for the 60's TV show - featuring two men travelling in a Corvette across America. Here are the words, to what was once, a very popular song.

"If you ever plan to motor West, Travel my way, take the highway, that's the best,

Get your kicks on Route 66

It winds from Chicago to L.A., More than 2000 miles all the way,

Get your kicks on Route 66

Now you go through Saint Louie, Joplin, Missouri, And Oklahoma City looks mighty pretty,

You'll see Amarillo, Gallup, New Mexico, Flagstaff, Arizona,

don't forget Winona, Kingman, Barstow, San Bernadino

Won't you get hip to this timely tip, When you make that California trip,

Get your kicks on Route 66

Hualapai Lodge, in Peach Springs Arizona, lies on the longest stretch of highway, left of the original route 66. This is a good place to stay for those looking to explore the canyon landscape, and it is also the gateway to the breathtaking drive, on the only road leading to the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

This area has been the home of the Hualapa, which means "People of the tall Pines" since the Hualapai Reservation was established in 1883. Today nearly half of the tribe lives in Peach Springs, the capital of the reservation, on Historic Route 66. In 1988 they decided to open their land, forming the Grand Canyon West, as a tourist destination. To visit one needs to purchase a permit and a tour package to enter, once inside cars are parked and visitors use the Hop-on-Hop-off shuttle, which is included in the purchase price.

Guests can choose what they want to do, as the shuttle operates continuously, so lets see what to choose from the included features in the entry package.

EAGLE POINT - here is the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass enclosed bridge, 4,000-feet above the Canyon floor, with dramatic views of the canyon. In addition there is a Native American Village showcasing authentic dwellings; live performances and demonstrations; and the chance to purchase handmade Native American jewelry and crafts, from different tribes

AGUANO POINT - visit the remnants of a tram that once stretched 8,800 feet across the canyon to a guano mine dating back to the 1930's; dine on the edge of the Grand Canyon with 360degrees views; and visit the Market which sells tribal members jewelry and crafts.

HUALAPAI RANCH - cowboy entertainment, wagon rides, horseback rides or stay overnight in one of the cabins facing the canyon rim. Learn to rope, quick draw, toss a tomahawk or listen to stories around an open fire.

There is an additional cost to stay at either the Hualapai Lodge - which has 60 rooms, a heated saltwater pool and spa, fitness center and a full service restaurant - or one of the cabins on the Huapalai Ranch, which are very civilized, with in-cabin bathroom, climate control, and adjoining cabins for friends or families to stay together. Of course it is possible to combine both locations.

Other recreational offerings, include at an additional cost, Whitewater Rafting in the Grand Canyon; helicopter flights that land on the banks of the Colorado River, where one can board a pontoon boat and ride between the rugged canyon walls; or fly like an eagle, soaring above the amazing natural wonder - the Grand Canyon - that was created over thousand of years, the view alone is worth the cost of the flight.