Founders' Day 2021: History of Mules at Grand Canyon

On Friday, February 26, 2021, we commemorated 102 years of the National Park Service at Grand Canyon. Recorded live on Facebook, this interview talks about the role mules play at Grand Canyon with a tour of the historic barn and blacksmith shop.

[@redbustourguide]

This was fantastic! Thanks! Im a tour guide for Xanterra out here at the Grand Canyon and now I have more to add to my commentary.

[@jwamn0002]

I just loved this. Great to see how it all works and the people who make it happen.

[@LisaHouserman]

Thanks! We just got our first mule in late July. We were used to horses. They are VERY different from horses for sure. I learned even more about them today from this gent on the tour like them being able to see all four hooves! Appreciate your tour.

[@danishsailing4630]

I recall Sherrie had a mule that she named Ellie-vator. :)

[@danishsailing4630]

I remember stacking hay in that loft.

[@danishsailing4630]

Is that John Berry? I think it is, but It was almost 30 years ago the last time I saw him.
If that's John Berry, hello from Jeff Smith in Denmark.

[@alejandrosanchez6683]

Hello, thank you for making this vídeo. I appreciate the information you provide on it.
I have one question:
Is it possible to take your own mule and ride it down to phantom ranch ?
Just to be clear, by own mule I am referring as a “private” mule that an individual owns and not the mules on the video.
I appreciate the response to my question.

[@GrandCanyonConservancy]

Hi Alejandro, there is private stock use at Grand Canyon, but you will need to check in with the NPS Backcountry office before your visit for planning and permits. Read more about it here: www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/private-stock.htm

[@rupertmcnaughtdavis3649]

We don't say the" H"- word round here ! Not surprised, mules find it insulting to be compared to a horse.