Grand Canyon, the jewel in the Southwest's crown a stunning visual and emotional experience, awesome with a capital A. The canyon has a definite 'presence' or ambiance about it, quite simply one of this planets most spectacular natural wonders on a vast scale. Nothing written here can do it justice. Worth the longest of journeys. Don't miss it.

To get that special Grand canyon experience you really need to be alone at times, this is not so difficult despite the increasing number of visitors each year. Avoid the crowded area rim-side directly alongside Bright Angel Lodge, there is an easy paved walk heading East (facing the canyon turn right) for beautifully quiet morning or evening walks. Alternatively take the free shuttle, maybe to the west rim drive and get off at one of the overlooks, perhaps Mojave or Hopi Point. Either side you will find small unpaved trails take a stroll along these rim trails until you have left the visiting throngs behind. Now take in all the silent grandeur that is Grand Canyon, often described as an overwhelming and personal experience. The best time to view the canyon is early morning or late afternoon through to sunset. The lengthening shadows bring depth and dimension to this magnificent setting, the colors become intense as sunset approaches, a glorious end to the day. Believe it or not during the day, with the sun right overhead, the canyon can look hazy almost bleached out and somewhat disappointing.
                               Sunrise or sunset? Both are spectacular but for the richest colors it has to be sunset.

                                                                                Decisions!  North or South Rim.

If it has to be one or the other then the suggestion is the South rim, it has many more convenient overlooks and easy trails for first timers. The facilities at the village are considerable. The North rim has much to recommend it, its quieter, less crowded has a wonderful meadowland drive before reaching the visitor center. There are some serious trails albeit best for the serious hiker,
The overlooks are impressive especially Cape Royal, a little more driving to get there. There is one major obstacle to take into consideration and that is the North rim is only open to visitors from mid May so check the NPS site before making plans.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Location: Northern Arizona.

Approach: from the east..(89 then 64) to the Park entrance and the east rim drive. The pay station is right here, for your first view
of the canyon the Desert View Tower area or Lipan Point are impressive and incredible views. There is a large paved car park at the tower with a short stroll down to the rim.
Some 25 miles on is the Grand Canyon village, lodges restaurants and parking.(note the speed limit)

Approach: from the south. ( 64/180) to the Park entrance and pay station. Following the paved road will take you to the visitor center and then down towards the rim.

Parking: There are various parks within the village area, don't worry if you cant get close to the rim with your car, the free shuttle bus service is excellent and runs through or by the major car parks regularly. There are car parks situated in the General Store and Post Office area, near the train depot triangle, behind and in front of Maswik Lodge as well as roadside spaces where permitted. These areas are sign posted. If you have reservations you usually park near your lodge or cabin after booking in. The desk personnel will advise you.

Lodging : To stay within the park (camping aside) reservation need to be made some months ahead of your visit, even then it can well be fully booked especially in peak season. Alternatively there is lodging in near by Tusayan or a little further away Williams and Flagstaff. For those on a budget try Bright Angel cabins or Mazwik cabins, basic but cozy. (Canyon Lodging link)

Food : There are restaurants and self service facilities within easy reach i.e. Maswik Lodge and by the central Post Office. There are restaurants and steak houses within the Lodges reservations are recommended.

Trails: For the beginners and strollers there is the wonderful West rim trail, for the more adventurous the world famous Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails that lead down to Phantom Ranch. It is possible to walk a way down these trails but be warned for every hour (or timescale) taken downward it will take at least twice as long to get back up. What may start as a casual downward stroll for just a short distance soon gives way to a compelling urge to see just what is around the next bend ! If you give yourself too much to do, you'll not be doing anything the next day as walking on those aching legs will be pure torture! These trails can be dangerous treat them with caution and take plenty of water, one more thing. . .mule trains have priority. If you wish to know more about the mule rides, follow the links to the official Grand Canyon website.