The Grand Canyon in Arizona is enormous in size. You can't just drive to the gorge, spend some time looking around and then leave. To really make the most of a visit to the Grand Canyon, you must take a few hikes, ride the Colorado River and explore each corner open to tourists. The many different views the Grand Canyon can give you will certainly be a surprise. The Canyon attracts millions of people each year with its colorful landscape, immense size, and awe-inspiring geology. This natural wonder presents obstacles that can leave even the experienced hikers emerging sore and fatigued, including the scorching heat during the summer months, an altitude of 7,000 feet and steep, rocky, winding trails.
Here are some ways you can take in the mystique of the Grand Canyon:
The South Rim. Aside from the view of this magnificent gorge, you get a close look at some historical buildings and ruins.
Toroweap Overlook. This popular overlook is on the North Rim and is 3,000 feet straight up from the river. This gives you a breath-taking view due to the steepness of the gorge.
Grand Canyon Skywalk. This gives you quite a scary view and really gets your heart pounding since it is a glass-bottom walkway that extends out from the edge of the gorge. The Skywalk is officially open from dawn to dusk, seven days a week.
Lipan Point. Also at the South Rim, this marks the starting point of the Tanner Trail. Take some time to grasp the beauty of the Canyon from Lipan Point before heading down the trail.
Tanner Trail. This trail heads towards the floor of the gorge and can be a challenging hike. The view of the Canyon from this trail is overwhelming. Bright Angel Trail. The South Rim is where the most popular hike exists. The Bright Angel Trail is located near the Grand Canyon Village. On the North Rim, North Kailbab is the most popular hiking trail.
Whitewater Rafting. Some visitors prefer to go down to the bottom of the river by foot, while others prefer to ride the river. Being at the Grand Canyon bottom where you are thrown by the water, and surrounded by huge rocks can be an astounding experience.
Aerial View. Some people prefer the aerial view from a helicopter from one of the many charter services that will give you a bird's eye view of the Grand Canyon. Tour operators can be located at the Grand Canyon Airport, which is five miles south of the park or in Sedona. Mule ride. Take a mule ride down the side of the Canyon. There are several companies who perform this magnificent view as you travel down the inside of the Canyon.
The Grand Canyon can be a great family vacation adventure on a budget. If you like camping The North Rim is open for campers free of charge. Also there are plenty of benches and tables set up for eating. So make sure you pack your sleeping bags, tents and food so you won't need to spend any money for lodging or dining while visiting the Grand Canyon!
Doug Maxwell is an online marketer of family vacation ideas and as well as high quality products at great prices with exceptional service. Check out my family vacation blog for more travel ideas: Family Vacation Deals. Here are my other blogs that may be of interest to you: Home Decorating Ideas & Tips, Lawn & Garden Decorative Tips & MHBS Home Inventory.
