Observations
Maswik Lodge has a kind of "it's there but it isn't there" feel to it -- you're close to the Grand Canyon, but you wouldn't know it from your surroundings. As a result, Maswik is one of the runner-ups in the canyon lodging mix. People will cancel a reservation in Tusayan if a room at Maswik should open up, the goal of course to be as close to the rim as possible.
above, typical room in Maswik north. Photo courtesy Xanterra.
At about 2,000' from the rim, the Maswik is relatively close. Relative is the key concept here, because on a hot summer day with the sun beating mercilessly, a lot of people find that short walk to be unbearable. The park service provides transportation; unfortunately the ride system seems to consume a lot of time.
above, typical room in Maswik south. Photo courtesy Xanterra.
As with all Xanterra properties at Grand Canyon, rooms are spotlessly clean and in very good condition. There are some subtle differences between Maswik "north" and "south." Rooms in north tend to be larger and almost twice as expensive. South thus represents one of the best values in Grand Canyon lodging. Regardless, both facilities echo the Mission 66 philosophy, so they don't evoke much sentiment nor add much to the park experience. The decor is pleasant enough, however, it doesn't cover the fact that Maswik is a motel of mundane modernity.
above, exterior styling at Maswik south. Photo courtesy Xanterra.
The Maswik is located on the site of the 1927 Motor Lodge, the name used by the property until the 1980s. There are a few lingering pieces of the past, namely, the summertime cabins. These cabins have been revamped with many modern conveniences -- notably indoor plumbing -- yet they still retain their decades-old individuality and charm. If you are making a reservation at Maswik, consider that the cabins provide an ambiance and an authenticity not found in the modern motel buildings.
above, interior of one of the charming cabins at Maswik. Photo courtesy Xanterra.
