The Grand Canyon: Arizona Tour

When one thinks of the state of Arizona, in the United States of America, the first thought is the magnificent Grand Canyon. This wonder of the world is 277 river miles (446km) long, up to 18 miles (29km) wide, and a mile (1.6km) deep.

Measurements on paper cannot relay the truly awesome scope of this great canyon, nor describe it’s beauty. Postcards, photographs, nor a thousand words cannot aptly give one a true perspective of the vast, rugged canyon carved by the Colorado river.

The oldest human artifacts found are nearly 12,000 years old and date to the Paleo-Indian period. Archeological remains of Paleo-Indian, Archaic, Basketmaker, Acestral Puebloan, Cohonina, Cerbat, Pai, Zuni, Hopi, Navajo, and Euro-American cultures groups are found at the Grand Canyon.

Nearly five million people see the 1 mile deep (1.6 km) Grand Canyon each year. Most people view the Canyon from the outlooks at the South Rim, which is open all year. The North Rim of the Canyon rises 1,000 feet higher than the South Rim, and is not accessible year round, due to inclement weather in winter months.

As there is no longer an airstrip at the North Rim, one must make the drive from the South Rim. It is 220 miles / 354 km by car from the South Rim.

To see the Inner Canyon, one must hike, take a mule ride, or helicopter. The Phantom Ranch is in the Inner Canyon, as are river rafting trips . The trip to the Inner Canyon are for the more hardy, but well worth the endeavor.

Spring and Fall can bring a variety of weather conditions, so one must be prepared for cold, snow, wind, or rain.

Be sure to take plenty of water, especially in the summer months, as the weather is hot and dry! Dehydration can occur quickly. Daytime highs at the river often exceed 105°F. Thunderstorms frequently occur during July, August, and early September.

Winter conditions on the South Rim can be extreme. The road into the North Rim is closed from the first heavy snow in November or early December to mid-May.

Many of the facilities at Grand Canyon are historic and built before current accessibility standards were set. The terrain is rugged with narrow, rocky trails and steep cliffs.

As the Canyon is a National Park, one must obtain a parking permit, which may be purchased at the Entrance Gates, Canyon View Information Plaza, or North Rim Visitor Center.

Lodging prices range from $52.00 to over $300.00 per night. Be sure to book reservations as far in advance as is possible, especially during the summer months, as these are usually booked WELL ahead. There is no longer a youth hostel at the Grand Canyon. Reservations are handled by Xanterra Parks & Resorts.

El Tovar Hotel was built in 1905 and is one place you will not want to miss. The décor, ambience and a chance to get out of the hot summer sun will draw you to this attraction.

You will also want to visit Desert View Point to enjoy the view from the beautiful Watchtower overlooking the Canyon, designed by architect Mary Colter in 1933.

Nearly five million people see the 1 mile deep (1.6 km) Grand Canyon each year. If you plan a visit, please remember to take your camera, water, dress appropriately, make your reservations early and enjoy one of the truly great wonders of the world!