Why Must You Visit Grand Canyon National Park?
Well, let’s see, besides the tiny little fact that Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, I was lost for words when my eyes gazed at first sight of the Canyon. It was mother natures miracle, Soulful, Magical, Spectacular and magnificent.
Where is the Grand Canyon National Park?
You will find this natural wonder in Arizona and on the borders of Utah and Nevada. Arizona is a state in the southwestern region of the United States. It is the sixth largest and the 14th most populous of the 50 states.
What is The Grand Canyon?
The Grand Canyon is indeed a massive hole in the ground. It is 446km (277 miles) long and up to 29km (18miles) wide and 1800 meter (6000 feet) deep). The layered bands of red rocks are revealing nearly two billion years of geological history that have been exposed as the Colorado River, and its tributaries cut their channels through layer after layer of rock while the Colorado Plateau uplifted.
People come from all over the world to immerse in the beauty of this natural wonder.
Exciting fact/s about Grand Canyon.
(1) The Grand Canyon is home to over – 70 species of mammals, 250 species of birds, 48 species of reptiles and five species of amphibians. Keep an eye out for the Elk, Dear, Squirrels, Bighorn Sheep, California Condors
(2) Approximately 2 kilometers below the South Rim, the Colorado River flows at an average speed of about 7km (4miles) per hour. Averaging 100 meters (300 feet) wide and 33 meters (100 feet) deep, the river flows west through the Canyon. Bends south and empties into the Gulf of California in Mexico.
(3) The Grand Canyon National Park is managed by the National Park Service, the Hualapai Tribal Nation, and the Havasupai Tribe.
(4) Five different native American tribes presently occupy the region – Hopi, Navajo, Havasupai, Pauite, and Hualapai. Native Americans have a spiritual attachment to this land.
Must do at Grand Canyon
(1) Visit Mather Point
Mathers Point is one of the South Rim’s famous lookout. This can get very busy, allow yourself heaps of time to get close and personal with the Canyons magnificent views.
(2) Grand Canyon South Rim
South Rim, is open all year, it offers a variety of museums and information center, walking, and hiking trails, horseback or bicycle riding a fantastic lookout.
(3) Grand Canyon North Rim
North Rim, is closed over the winter season. The North Rim is over 2438 meters (8000 feet) in elevation. This Rim is not as popular, but the views are just as magnificent.
(4) Bright Angel Trail
The hiker’s dream, even if you are not a keen hiker, walking this trail is just the ultimate. If you can, why not stay the night at the Bright Angel Lodge. Watch the magic of sunrise over The Grand Canyon.
(5) Grand Canyon Spirit Tour – by Maverick Helicopters
The ride takes you from the South Rim to the North Rim, following the Colorado River. Admire the magnificent views of over 2 billion years of geological history and see the large river merge with little Colorado River. A flight you will not forget.
(6) Grand Canyon 4×4 Ride & South Rim Walking Tour
An amazing tour if you want to be amongst it all. Ride through the Kaibab National Forest, and the walking tour begins at Grand Canyon Village. The Safari & Rim Walk is a three-hour driving/walking tour which includes about a 90 minute guided walk along the rim of the Grand Canyon. Lots of photo opportunities, but don’t forget to take time to be in the moment and enjoy your surroundings.
(7) 4×4 Sunset Tour – by Grand Canyon Jeep Tours & Safaris
Perfect tour for Nature lovers and Soulful travelers. Sunset on its own is just breathtaking, image the vibrant colors of the rocks and sky over the Grand Canyon.
(8) Grand Canyon Flight & Jeep Tour with Lunch – by Westwind Air Service
Great way to experience the Grand Canyon, By air and ground. Get close and personal with nature, then immerse yourself with a luxurious lunch overlooking the breathtaking views of Grand Canyon.
(9) Grand River Rush Adventure – Whitewater Rafting
For the daredevil and luxury traveler, this is a must do – have it all, the crystal blue waters of Lake Mead, the mighty Hoover Dam, and the Magical Grand Canyon. This tour is the ultimate experience of The Grand Canyon.
(10) Diamond Creek Hummer Tour -by Big Horn Tours
Everyone see the Grand Canyon from the top, if you are one of those who always wanted to get down to the bottom and ride through the heart of this magical natural beauty, then this tour is for you.
(11) Grand Canyon Railway Day Trip – by Grand Canyon Railway
Ride the Rails to the South Rim. If you want to relive history, get the feel of how the old west traveled in the day – then this is a tour for you. Start your trip from Williams Deport (Arizona), experience the wild west spirit with a shootout in the outdoor theater before the train leaves for The Historic District of Grand Canyon Villiage.
A lot of visitors stay either at Las Vegas or Flagstaff and make a day trip to The Grand Canyon National Park. I would recommend spending a night at the Grand Canyon if you have the luxury of time, if not then a day trip is definitely a great option.
There are plenty of accommodation options. From Luxury to budget, even camping close to the South Rim end.
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