Grand Canyon National Park, established in 1919, is a jaw-dropping spectacle that has to be seen to be believed. Nestled in northern Arizona, this magnificent park stretches over 278 miles (447 km) of the Colorado River and its surrounding uplands. The Grand Canyon sits on the ancestral homeland of 11 Tribal Communities and showcases some of the most awe-inspiring examples of erosion on the planet. Carved over millions of years, its breathtaking vistas leave visitors in sheer amazement, making it a bucket-list destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Dos:
1. Visit in the Fall: October is perfect for exploring. The weather is just right—not too hot or cold—making your hikes more enjoyable.
2. Stop at the Visitor Center: Get your passport stamped, stock up on souvenirs and water, and if you're lucky, browse local vendors' homemade crafts. It's a great starting point for your adventure. We started the rim trail and were greeted by vendors with handmade jewelry, a first for me in a national park.
3. Hike the South Rim Trail: Ride a park shuttle bus (red, blue, or orange) to any viewpoint, get out, and start walking. This 13-mile (21 km) mostly paved trail stretches from the South Kaibab Trailhead to Hermits Rest, offering amazing facts and views along the way. I really enjoyed seeing the diagrams with the different types of stone the canyon has and explanations on how it was formed.
4. Experience Mather Point: Just a short walk from the visitor center, Mather Point is the most crowded viewpoint but also where many people first see the canyon. It’s a must-see as you turn the corner and get your first peak.
5. Check Out Oo-Ahh Point: This 1.8-mile out-and-back trail is quick and easy going down, but the hike back up takes about twice as long. Take it slow, and the ascent won't be too bad.
6. Utilize the Shuttle System: The shuttle buses start running one hour before sunrise and continue one hour past sunset, arriving every 15 minutes. This will make your life so much easier. Check the current schedule for details.
7. Explore the South Kaibab Trail: This 3.1-mile out-and-back trail is ideal for day hikes into the canyon, offering wonderful expansive views. Be mindful of the extreme heat in summer and little protection from passing storms.
Don’ts:
1. Camp Outside the Park: Missing out on camping around the epic views of the Grand Canyon is a no-go. If you can, stay and camp to fully immerse yourself in the experience. We didn't get to this time and I wished we had!
2. Forget Water: Like a lot of water. The canyon's temperature can vary drastically, and there's no water along the trail. Ensure you carry enough and know where the refill points are—Hermits Rest, Bright Angel Trailhead, Grand Canyon Village, and the South Kaibab Trailhead.
3. Forget to Get a Permit for Havasupai Falls: If you want to hike to the legendary Havasupai Falls, get your permit months in advance. I still missed out on it this time. It's one of the most epic hikes in the USA.
4. Go off trail for a photo: Don’t be that person who climbs out on slippery granite rocks next to a 1,000-foot drop. Rescue missions are no joke. I witnessed a few.
5. Forget to Be Aware: Seriously, the edge is right there. Some sections of the Rim Trail take you close to the edge of sheer cliffs with no guardrails. Keep your eyes open and your wits about you.
The Grand Canyon is truly a bizarre and surreal place. Unlike other national parks where movement is constant, the Canyon feels as if it's holding its breath—vast, silent, and incredibly still. It’s one of those moments where you might find yourself wondering, "Is this even real?" So, go ahead and soak in the grandeur, the quiet, and the unparalleled beauty of the Grand Canyon. And remember, respect the edge and the silence—it’s all part of the magic.
Onto the next sky!
Comments