Grand Canyon Airplane Tours |
Grand Canyon National Park |
Grand Canyon National Park
The Perfect Vacation Destination During Times of Expensive Gas, Food and Lodging
The Grand Canyon National Park is found in the United States in the Arizona region. It covers an area of about 4,927 square kilometers (more than a million acres!) and is among the oldest national parks in the United States.
Though there are very many canyons all over the world, some being deeper and wider, the Grand Canyon is still referred to as the grandest of them all. It is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and is found within this park. It has a depth of more than one mile and an average width of 10 miles. Rocks and archaeological resources that are over a billion years old also characterize it.
The Colorado River - The Dividing Line
The Grand Canyon National park is separated by the Colorado River that bisects it into Southern and Northern areas. Though it is not very wide, it takes an average of five hours for one to drive from the North to the South parts of the park.
Thousands of visitors visit the area every year. Many of them are interested in the natural features, animals, outdoor activities and scenic views. The South Rim is more popular with visitors since it is more accessible when compared to the North Rim, which is more secluded and wild. The high seasons in the two separate rims also differ with the Northern part having a very short season of about 6 months while the South is open all year round.
During the winter season, the North Rim is usually closed due to heavy snow. However, before the snow starts falling, visitors can enjoy the day facilities in the North Rim. No overnight facilities are made available to visitors at this time.
Grand Canyon Things to Do!
There are many services available in the Grand Canyon and the surrounding areas. It is the ideal place within the United States for visitors seeking great outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, river rafting, guided tours and bird and animal watching. There are many species of plants and animals that can be found in the area. Some of the world's most endangered species of animals can be found here such as the bald eagle, razorback sucker and the peregrine falcon. Some of the endangered plant species include the Brady pincushion cactus among others.
Other amazing features that can be found include the oldest human artifacts that date back to over 4000 years. It has been recognized all over the world as having intensive archaeological resources and historical structures. Four of the buildings at Grand Canyon Village are historical landmarks. There are other buildings and structures that have also been nominated for historical recognition.
RSVP Grand Canyon Hotels ASAP!
Anyone interested in visiting the Grand Canyon National Park should make reservations beforehand, especially during the summer season when it is very busy. Since it is located in a remote part of the country, it is best that visitors come fully prepared with enough water, gas, film and a set of extra car keys. To keep the Grand Canyon National Park clean, visitors are requested to travel green to reduce the carbon emissions and the waste that goes to the stream.
Grand Canyon Tours?
There are lots of things to do at Grand Canyon National Park. Hikers will enjoy Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail, both of which take you below the rim. There are also a number of fantastic air tours that depart from Grand Canyon Airport in Tusayan, the small town just outside the gates of the park. If you happen to be visiting anytime from March through early November, consider taking a fabulous 1-day smooth-water rafting tour. Here are links to the most popular day tours:
I hope this article inspired you to either research more about Grand Canyon National Park or motivated you to visit. Getting to the South Rim is quite easy. You can depart from several points in Northern Arizona like Scottsdale and Phoenix or from Las Vegas, Nevada. Canyon weather is temperate during summer and cold during winter so dress appropriately. It's a great family vacation destination, too, and boasts lots of activities that groups of all ages will find fun and exciting. Considering the price of gas, food, and lodging these days, the Grand Canyon is a perfect candidate for anyone's annual holiday.
Have a GRAND day,
