It was a dark day on Friday when esteemed adventurer and author, Bill Beer, met his untimely demise in a catastrophic ultra-light plane accident at Kayenta, Arizona. The twilight of his life came at the ripe age of 71.

Recounting the harrowing incident, his wife, Sue, noted that eyewitnesses observed the aircraft suddenly tilt upwards at 2,220 feet, before plunging nose-first into the ground. According to Sue, the engine was still functional during this unraveled calamity. It appeared as if Bill had slumped onto the control bar during this sequence of events. There were indications he was planning to release the ballistic parachute, a safety measure in such craft, but tragically, he didn’t manage.

His brother, John, arrived at the crash site, and hypothesized a sudden stroke or heart attack might have resulted in Bill’s catastrophic loss of control.

Bill Beer’s Passion for Flying

Although a relatively new hobby, Bill had been a proud ultralight aircraft pilot for around half a decade. His adventurous spirit had seen him fly across various states, including long haul routes from California to Arizona, then to St. Louis, and subsequently, to Canada.

Born in the rustic state of Utah, Bill was a man of dreams and passion. He often expressed his desire to explore the “four corners” – Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado, traversing through the canyons that he held closely to his heart.

While Bill Beer’s expertise centers on environmental conservation and wildlife, readers may also find the exploration of Grand Canyon’s diverse ecosystem intriguing, particularly its resident snakes and their role within it.

A Life Lived in Adventure

Beyond his accomplishments as a pilot, Bill was a man of many passions. He was an accomplished author, with a number of books to his name, among which was the memorable “We Swam the Grand Canyon”, a chronicle of his 1955 adventure.

The adventurous spirit of the Beer family led them to the Virgin Islands in 1965, journeying with their daughter, Barrie Jean, aboard their stunning 65-foot Alden schooner, named “True Love”. The vessel held its own fame, having been showcased in the 1956 film “High Society”, starring celebrated figures like Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby and Grace Kelly.

Bill’s legacy continues through his son, Ben Beer, born in St. Thomas, who represented the Virgin Islands in the 2000 Finn World Championship sailing competition in Weymouth, England, vying for a spot in the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

Bill Beer’s Love for Music and Local Gatherings

Bill left an indelible mark as the captain of “True Love”, initially hosting term charters, before transitioning to day sail charters. Eventually, he retired from personally running the boat, entrusting the helm to Maxine Lavitt for a decade. Following Bill’s departure, Maxine commemorated Bill as a “larger than life” figure, whose loss left a vast void. She referred to Bill as the “original adventurer”, crediting him for teaching her many important life lessons.

A man of many facets, Bill also had a keen interest in piano tuning, a skill he picked up to aid his wife’s career as a concert pianist. For about 16 years, the Beer residence was a haven for music lovers every Sunday, as they hosted mini concerts featuring visiting pianists and musicians, thereby fostering a vibrant local community of music enthusiasts.

Surviving Family and Legacy

Despite the adversities, Sue Beer found solace in Bill’s love for life, emphasizing that he was in the midst of pursuing his passion when he passed away. Bill’s legacy continues to live on through his family, comprising his wife Sue, his children, Barrie Jean Hibler and Benjamin Beer, his father, Kenneth, as well as his two sisters, Dorothy Lodato and Fran Kristofferson, and his brother, John.

A Man of Many Talents

In addition to his primary pursuits, Bill also harbored a deep appreciation for different genres of music, hosting local gatherings that featured both classical and jazz performances that delighted his guests. His musical endeavors were inclusive, welcoming local and visiting musicians alike and thus, fostering a vibrant musical community.

Beyond his personal accomplishments, the enduring impact of Bill’s adventurous spirit extended to his community and loved ones. His devotion to nurturing creativity, through local gatherings and performances, created an enduring legacy of passion and community spirit that survives him.

Conclusion

Bill Beer was a man with diverse interests who left behind a lasting legacy. His enthusiasm for adventure, literature, music, and life itself portrayed him as someone who embraced every aspect of existence. His varied journeys, from exploring the Grand Canyon to engaging with his local community, left an impression on those who knew him. Bill Beer’s life demonstrates the importance of exploration, community, and passion, inspiring others long after his time.

Bill Beer’s eclectic life is a story of an insatiable desire for new experiences and a deep love for adventure and the arts. From his piloting achievements to his leadership aboard the “True Love”, from his musical interests to his successful writing career, Beer was a true jack-of-all-trades. His enduring spirit and zest for life stand as a testament to his character, creating a legacy that continues beyond his years. His life reminds us of the beauty of pursuing our passions relentlessly, no matter where they take us.

The post Bill Beer: Master Brewer and Beer Enthusiast appeared first on GrandCanyonTreks.

Snakes are integral components of the Grand Canyon’s rich biodiversity. With their unique physical characteristics and fascinating behavioural patterns, they add a touch of intrigue to the canyon’s landscapes. This article aims to shed light on the various snake species that reside within the canyon’s walls, their unique traits, and several first-hand accounts of snake encounters.

As you delve into the wonders of the Grand Canyon and learn about its diverse inhabitants, such as the snakes, you may also like to read about Bill Beer’s experiences encountering these fascinating creatures.

First-Hand Snake Encounters

Imagine hiking on a sweltering August day and reaching for a water bottle, only to find a rattlesnake wrapped around it in a surprising twist. Or suppose, spotting the first Rattlesnake of the year on the Lava Falls Route, a beautiful creature, gracefully moving away from the path. The Grand Canyon ecosystem is home to numerous snake species, and hikers often come across them during their journey.

Many adventurers have shared their unusual encounters with snakes and their intriguing photographs. Some of these narratives unfold near Toroweap/Lave Falls Overlook, Nankoweap, Colorado River, and Deer Creek, among various other locations within the canyon. 

Identifying Different Snake Species

The Grand Canyon is home to a diverse variety of snakes, from the harmless Gopher snake to the famed Rattlesnakes. Each species has distinct physical traits and behavioural patterns that make them unique.

The Grand Canyon Rattler, for instance, is known for its light brown colour with noticeable splotches. Gopher Snakes, although bearing a resemblance to the feared rattlesnakes in pattern, are not venomous and often mimic a rattlesnake when threatened. Similarly, various other species like the Common Kingsnake, Wandering Garter Snake, and the Desert Striped Whipsnake, each contribute to the richness of the Grand Canyon’s ecosystem.

Key Survival Tips when Encountering Snakes

It’s paramount to understand how to act around snakes to avoid any undesirable incidents. Most snake bites result from the snake feeling threatened and self-defending. Generally, snakes are retiring and tend to flee at the sight of humans. Thus, in the event of an unexpected confrontation with a snake, it’s advisable to stay calm and back away without threatening the creature.

• To avert any untoward incidents, it’s advised not to wander barefoot around the camping site, especially after dark;
• Additionally, one must exercise caution while moving rocks or reaching into potential snake hiding spots.

Understanding Snake Bites and Venom

Snake bites can be dangerous, largely owing to the venom that they inject. The venom contains two types of toxins – hemolytic toxins and neurotoxins that respectively target blood vessels and nerves. It’s crucial to understand the serious repercussions of a snake bite and the immediate medical attention it necessitates.

Managing a Snakebite

• Remain calm and measured in response to snakebites;
• Avoid aggressive first aid like cutting or using tourniquets and ice;
• Do not attempt to suck out venom with your mouth;
• Prioritize proper care and quick transportation to professional medical services.

Stay calm and collected. It’s crucial to handle snakebites with prudence rather than resorting to drastic measures such as cutting, applying tourniquets, using ice, or attempting to extract venom orally. These aggressive methods can exacerbate the injury. Instead, focus on administering proper care and ensure the affected individual is quickly transported to a healthcare center for professional treatment.

Conclusion

Snakes, though often feared, play an important role in the Grand Canyon by contributing to its biodiversity. They have unique features and behaviors that are vital to the ecosystem. It’s important for people to learn about snakes, give them space, and act in a way that doesn’t harm them to help them survive.

The variety of snake species in the Grand Canyon is important for the area’s environment. This includes both non-venomous snakes like the gopher snake and venomous ones like rattlesnakes. Each kind of snake has its own way of contributing to the canyon’s environment and biodiversity.

The post Grand Canyon Snakes: Species, Habits & Survival Tips appeared first on GrandCanyonTreks.

Caesars Palace Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

If you ever visit Las Vegas, you should spice up the trip with a quick visit to Caesars Palace. This casino fills its vast gaming space with several casino games, and its theme is set in the ancient Roman Empire. Apart from the regular casino games you play, you can also indulge in sports betting, soak up different Roman-themed pools, or indulge in the finest of meals by celebrity chefs. Caesars Palace may be high-end, but you will get your money’s worth if you visit.

MGM Macau, Macau, China

In MGM Macau, you will get to wonder about a massive gaming space or private space if you seek the VIP experience. The iconic feature of this casino is the quality and variety of its cuisine, rated Michelin stars. If you get bored playing casino games, you can get your excitement back at bars and lounges where you can enjoy quality drinks or dance to your heart’s content on the dance floor. Remember to visit the casino’s contemporary art museum and see a movie at the 3D movie theatre.

The Bellagio, Las Vegas, USA

The Bellagio is another casino in Las Vegas that you just have to add to your list. The Bellagio is more of a destination resort than a casino, so there are a lot of leisure activities to engage in apart from gambling. The resort’s design was inspired by the Bellagio (a village in Italy), and as such, it has a must-sees conservatory and botanical garden. If you’re not hacking away at one of the thousands of slots available at the Bellagio, you should try its fine dining.

The Star Sydney, Sydney, Australia

Another famous name in the industry is the Star Sydney, which welcomes its guests with luxury accommodations and fine dining at various restaurants. This casino allows you to play your favourite games and attend live entertainment. It also doubles up as the perfect relaxation site on a waterfront with a spa center. 

Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monte Carlo, Monaco

This casino is a historic establishment with Belle Epoque architecture and an exclusive ambience. Its side attractions include an opera house, fine dining, casino gardens, luxury shopping, and an iconic cafe. The casino insists on its formal dress code and charges you to access the main gambling area even if you are not gambling.

The Hippodrome Casino, London, England 

The Hippodrome Casino combines a variety of casino games with side attractions like its rooftop terrace and cinema. The live performances at the Hippodrome include comedy shows, music performances and much more unique entertainment. Since it is located in the heart of London, the casino is surrounded by vibrant nightlife and restaurants.

How Do I Go About My Tour?

Whether you plan a simple tour around a casino city like Las Vegas or you plan to tour the most renowned locations around the globe, there are a few steps you have to take to make the experience memorable. 

• Conduct Your Research: You don’t want to start planning your journey without information on what you’re about to experience. Surf the web for details about prices, complimentary services, dress codes, and the gaming options available at each casino. You will be able to get better deals on accommodation if you conduct your research well.
• Have a Plan: It is tempting to be spontaneous on a tour, but you will have a better experience if you plan the essential details. Your accommodation, casinos to visit, budget for betting and on the trip, length of the journey, and much more. Pick up a notepad and cover these details before you leave for the first location.
• Explore Other Activities: Apart from sitting at tables and slot machines, here are a lot of activities you should indulge in while on a casino tour. Most physical casinos have adopted many other businesses, so you don’t have to leave the casino to explore. You can time your visit to coincide with events like concerts where you can watch your favourite musician play.
• Maintain Gambling Ethics: You must maintain gambling ethics at every point in your tour if you want a memorable experience. Keep your budget in the casino because you must cut your trip short. It is also essential that you don’t drink too much in casinos, especially in unknown areas.

Mistakes to Avoid While You’re on a Casino Tour

If you are new to touring, you are bound to make a few mistakes that you will learn from. However, you can avoid making them because we have listed them here.

• Avoid Unnecessary Expenses: The most common mistake people make on any tour is paying for unnecessary items or services. There are a lot of businesses built around the main attraction, like casinos, that try to attract their visitors. Although these side attractions will contribute to your overall experience, you don’t have to consider all of it because you don’t need it. You should also reject grand services from the casinos, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
• Avoid Overpacking: It’s quite a habit among travellers to pack several items to replicate the comfort of their homes elsewhere. Unfortunately, you must drop the habit this time to avoid minor disturbances at every airport. Pack only necessary items because you can always get other things or items you forgot at stores around casinos.
• Avoid Trying New Games: You might argue that you are taking a tour to relax and experience new things, but you will be surprised when you discover that trying new games may not deliver the desired experience. You will have a better experience playing a game you’re familiar with, unlike a game whose rules you’re not familiar with. Even if you try out new games, pick games like slot machines with which you are more likely to have fun.

Listing Important Locations

Here is a table listing essential locations in the world of gambling and their iconic casinos:

Apart from the illustrious cities discussed in this article, there are many more places you should look forward to visiting as a gambler. Monaco, Macau, Sydney, London, Atlantic City, Las Vegas, and many more cities are waiting to be explored by gamblers. Ensure you check the table above for more details. As a casino gambling fan, you would have fun on a trip to any of these locations.

The post Exploring The World’s Most Iconic Casinos: A Traveler’s Guide appeared first on GrandCanyonTreks.

Long-term planning (3-4 months in advance and earlier) will give you a greater choice of comfortable and affordable accommodations. And remember that Northern Rome is closed in winter. To avoid unpleasant surprises, always check the official websites of the parks before visiting: roads may be closed due to sudden snow or strong wind gusts.

Grand Canyon hotels and campgrounds

To understand the importance of booking hotels in advance, remember that about 6 million tourists travel to the Grand Canyon every year. The settlement capacity of such a huge number of people is very modest, so it is rational to make reservations as soon as you have decided on the route. Hotels on Indian reservations may have their own rules, including a complete ban on alcohol. This means that guests will not be able to buy alcohol, and that consuming or even bringing any alcoholic beverages into the rooms is prohibited.

If you choose to overnight at the campgrounds, be sure to request the appropriate registration documents from the park’s website. Overnight camping fees usually start at $20-$30, but there are deluxe options for $200 or more.

Overnight camping in a car in the Grand Canyon is equal to camping and is allowed only in organized sites. That’s why you can’t save money by spending a night or two in a car.

Weather in the Grand Canyon

As daytime temperature differences in the mountains are very significant, it affects comfort and safety.

In the North Rim, summer temperatures vary from 10°C at night to 30°C during the day, so clothing should be selected in “layers”, taking into account the high chance of being caught in a mountain thunderstorm. These unpredictable, with strong gusts of wind, rains are particularly common in July and August.

Southern Rome is hot in summer, with drying air, and temperatures can reach 40°C on the canyon slopes and in the valley. In March, the weather is so warm that, with enough rain, cacti and succulents bloom. But be careful: after the sun goes down, the temperature drops and you’ll need warm clothes.

In winter, snow can fall in the canyon and some parts of the roads and trails are covered with ice.

The post When is the best time to go to the Grand Canyon appeared first on GrandCanyonTreks.

The park has developed many trails (trails and routes) both on foot and on a free shuttle bus that makes stops at the most interesting places. There are several tourist centers on the territory of the canyon, which will help you decide on the route, as well as souvenir stores, from which you can bring home a memorable gift. For more information about the canyon you can visit the Yavapai Geology Museum or watch an interesting movie in Kolb Studio.

Each of the trails is unique. For example, the Rim Trail, which is 20 km long, gives you a chance to admire the canyon from a height. The Trail-of-Time will familiarize you with the time markers of the canyon, you will see the rocks, stones and minerals of the Grand Canyon and trace its history.

Grand Canyon North Rim is less popular with tourists due to the fact that from October to May the roads to it are covered with snow. Therefore, tourists go there at this time of year not in cars, but on skis or on foot. But it is very beautiful, although many objects are closed for visiting in winter.

The post What to see in the Grand Canyon? appeared first on GrandCanyonTreks.

The Grand Canyon in the United States is a unique phenomenon of nature, to observe which man has the honor to observe. This is exactly the place on Earth where nature shows its power and beauty, its greatness and eternity, compared to the short human life. This natural wonder in the United States cannot be left unnoticed!

The post Tourist information appeared first on GrandCanyonTreks.

The world’s most famous canyon, formed by the flow of the Colorado River and subjected to harsh weather conditions over millennia, is a geologic formation with stunning views and magnificent rock features. As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, there are few travelers who don’t have this brutal natural phenomenon on their wish list. But, as you might expect from a tourist attraction that spans 277 miles and reaches over 8,000 feet above sea level in places, there are several ways to “see” the Grand Canyon.

Depending on where, when, and how visitors enter the national park, the Grand Canyon can offer a huge variety of experiences. After all, walking across the Redwall Bridge is different and distinct from the more challenging trip to the canyon’s edge in Toroweap; just as booking IMAX tickets at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center is far from rafting down the Colorado River yourself.

Choosing a great view of the Grand Canyon is a bit like choosing a dish from the menu of a Michelin-starred restaurant; you really are spoiled for choice. There are so many sites along the north and south rims, there are excursions into the canyon basin, exploration trips into caves, trails through rock formations and tent sites for those who want to sleep under the stars.

Ask around, and you’ll often find widely varying opinions on the best place to see a sunset in the Grand Canyon or where the best viewing area is on the Grand Canyon to appreciate the panorama. As you’ll see, the best views of the Grand Canyon itself may not even be available from the ground. Indeed, thousands of visitors each year take to the skies to marvel at this natural wonder in all its aerial beauty.

The post How to get the best view of the Grand Canyon appeared first on GrandCanyonTreks.