Millions of visitors trek to the Grand Canyon each year.
About 5 million people visit the Grand Canyon in northern Arizona each year. They come to see the colorful rock layers that millions of years of erosion from the Colorado River have exposed. Designated a national park in 1919, the Grand Canyon is listed as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and as a World Heritage Site.
South Rim Hiking
The Grand Canyon's South Rim has easier hiking trails than the North Rim. The Bright Angel Trail is the most popular way down into the canyon, and you'll share the route with visitors riding mules. A number of scenic drives along the rim offer views of the canyon walls and hints of the Colorado River as it curves far below.
North Rim Camping
The North Rim has more demanding trails that are better suited to the more adventuresome traveler. The North Rim Visitor Center is open from mid-May to mid-October. You can still hike there at other times, but no facilities are available. You also can do winter camping with a backcountry permit.
Group Sightseeing
You can take organized tours of the Grand Canyon area. Las Vegas is a popular starting point. From there, you can take bus tours to the South Rim and to the new Skywalk on the West Rim. The glass walkway juts out 70 feet from the rim in a wide arch, offering a spectacular view of the canyon floor 2,000 feet below. Helicopter tours are another popular option for getting a bird's-eye view of the area. Rafting trips also are available that take you through the Colorado River rapids.
Wildlife Watching
The California Condor is among the many bird and animal species that live in the area. Other birds include bald and golden eagles, peregrine falcons, red-tailed hawks and wild turkeys. The coyote is probably the most visible, and the most verbal, of the land mammals. Others include elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, rabbits, squirrels, ring-tailed cats and raccoons.
Warnings
The Grand Canyon is in a remote desert area, so you should take some precautions. Carry plenty of drinking water, especially in the summer months, and bring snacks. Salty, high-carbohydrate foods will help keep you hydrated. Avoid long hikes if you are sensitive to heat. Dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared for sudden showers. Make sure your car is in good repair and that the gas tank is kept full.
Tags: Grand Canyon, Colorado River, each year
