Located 49 mi (79 km) from the famed Grand Canyon National Park, Willams is commonly referred to as the gateway to the Grand Canyon. The region has several lakes that are perfect for camping, fishing and swimming. During the summer months, golfers can enjoy Elephant Rocks Golf Course in a nearby forest setting. During the winter, Williams Ski Area has a variety of runs and trails to choose from. Hunting in the Williams area is very popular as deer, elk, black bear and mountain lions can be found here. The town was established in the 1800s and the architectural history is detailed in the buildings, streets and neighborhoods. To learn more about the Arizona rail system, visit the southern depot for the Grand Canyon Railway. Train rides run daily and packages are available directly to the Grand Canyon National Park.