by Heather Shoning
there are many ways to experience America’s geological wonder
HAVE YOU EVER BEEN to that giant hole in northern Arizona? The Grand Canyon is a spectacular sight to behold. Of course, the striking vistas are just small portions of this massive canyon—it averages 10 miles wide and a mile deep for the entirety of its 277 miles in length, engulfing the Colorado River. While it’s not the largest canyon in the world, it’s at the top of the list. The entire national park by the same name, which was established on February 26, 1919, is greater than 1.2 million acres and sits on the ancestral lands of 11 indigenous tribes—the Puebloan, Havasupai and Navajo have lived in and around the Grand Canyon for thousands of years.
In addition to being a subject of ongoing scientific research and exploration, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a place of geological and ecological significance, it’s jaw-dropping gorgeous! Numerous viewpoints along its rim provide breathtaking panoramic views, highlighting the canyon’s buttes, spires and mesas, plus its striated colors ranging from deep oranges and reds to browns and soft yellows.
The sheer size ensures you won’t see it all, but there are many ways to enjoy Grand Canyon National Park from the top rim to the depths below.
Camping and hiking are two popular ways to enjoy it. There are developed camping areas on the north and south rims, with the south rim offering year-round camping while the north rim is seasonal only. Backcountry camping is also available with a permit. Both rims have day-hike trails—some are even paved—offering spectacular vistas of the inner canyon. Only experienced and prepared hikers should attempt the longer rim-to-river hikes or a rim-to-rim hike—more than 250 people are rescued from the canyon each year. The most popular hiking trail is the Bright Angel Trail. It’s well-maintained and starts downhill, which means the return trip is all uphill, so be prepared and watch the time, as it will likely take you twice as long to return. Other popular hiking trails include the South Rim Trail and the South Kaibab Trail.
Another way to take in the sights on foot is to visit the Skywalk at Eagle Point—a cantilevered glass bridge in Grand Canyon West. The 10-footwide, horseshoe-shaped bridge extends out 70 feet over the rim and 4,000 feet above the canyon floor below. This attraction is on the Hualapai Reservation and is not affiliated with Grand Canyon National Park. Off-site parking and shuttle service is available, and you can purchase tickets online ahead of time.
It’s possible to enjoy the views from a different perspective—on a mule. Mules are selected for their gentle temperament and sure-footedness on the trails. Various ride options are available, from one-hour to multi-night trips, plus wagon rides based on the outfitter. These unique experiences attract many people, so they can be booked more than a year in advance—plan ahead to create this special memory.
Perhaps you prefer to experience the canyon from the bottom—in the river itself. Rafting trips are a popular tourist adventure. The Colorado River offers both white-water rafting and calm-water trips. Various rafting companies provide guided tours that range from one-day to multi-day excursions.
Another option is to get a bird’s-eye view. Soar above the canyon in a helicopter for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Tour companies offer canyon-based flights from 25 to 50 minutes long, or you can catch a flight starting in Las Vegas lasting up to 4 ½ hours. Larger aircrafts can accommodate a family trip with up to six passengers.
Regardless of how you choose to experience it, you’re sure to spend much of your trip in wonder and awe over the astounding vistas and remarkable rock formations. In addition, you’ll surely go home with stunning photos, exceptional memories and tall tales to tell friends and family about your Grand Canyon adventure.
