One of America’s finest features is its collection of national parks. From the towering mountains of Alaska to the Everglades of Florida, our nation is blessed with a multitude of amazing natural wonders. These parks are a must visit for everyone. Though there are many to choose from, one that offers the most-stunning view is the Grand Canyon located in Northern Arizona.
Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most popular parks to visit. It was formed by the power of the mighty Colorado River which has created several unique features. Discovered around 1540 AD, long before the United States became a nation , the Grand Canyon is an amazing spectacle for anyone who sees it. Millions of years in the making, you can see the different rock layers plainly as you look at the walls of the canyon. Some of the oldest rock discovered in North America lies at the bottom of the canyon. It is called the Vishnu Schist and it is approximately 1.75 billion years old. According to geologists, this was initially at the bottom of an ocean trench and far under the surface of the ocean.
You can visit the Grand Canyon in three different areas. The highest elevations of the canyon are located at the North Rim. This portion of the canyon is remote and is one of the least-visited portions of the park. It does reward visitors with spectacular views looking southward and it offers slightly cooler temperatures. There are many more tree species at the North Rim, but this area only offers three different viewing points.
The South Rim is the most-visited portion of the Canyon and offers twelve different vistas along the Canyon Rim Road where you can enjoy the view. Several facilities are available along the route including vending, restrooms, and even lodging. This portion of the canyon has great roads and is located a few hours from Flagstaff, AZ where you can find even more lodging. Most of the park services are available at the South Rim and far more visitors visit here than any other portion of the park.
Grand Canyon also offers a west area where you can view the Canyon. In fact, this is where you can visit the now famous Sky Bridge which juts out over a steep cliff. With a transparent base, you can walk out over the canyon and look straight through the floor to the canyon below. The West Rim is not far from Las Vegas and is growing in popularity every year.
You can also visit the Canyon by plane or helicopter. Las Vegas offers the best opportunities to explore the Canyon by air, but other operators are available in different areas as well. If you had to choose between the two, take a helicopter ride. Helicopters can slow down to give you a better view of the canyon, though planes can cover more territory normally.
And, let’s not forget about visiting by mule! For years people have traveled from the rim to the canyon floor, a descent of over 5,000 feet, by joining the famous mule train! Up to twenty riders at a time travel along the trail build by the National Park Service. The tour offers several stops and participants can learn about ecology, geology, and more.
For the hard core adventurers, rafting the Colorado River at the bottom of the Canyon is a thrill-seekers dream. Surging waters flow over a series of rapids which are sure to excite anyone. Though the rapids are not nearly as strong as they were years ago (thanks to the Hoover Dam). Many of these tours include camping along the way with meals. Spaces are limited, but for those who love excitement, these rafting trips are well-worth it.
Overall, there is so much to see and do at the Grand Canyon. most of the stops are completely accessible for the physically challenged and the views are unequaled. Make plans to take a tour of the canyon soon. Better yet, plan a tour with a group! It’s a lot more fun that way!
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