Stretching for 277 miles through the arid Arizona landscape and reaching depths of over a mile, the Grand Canyon is one of the most impressive sights in the natural world. Its colossal proportions have attracted visitors from far and wide for generations, with holidaymakers travelling to this remote corner of the desert to hike the rugged hills, raft down the Colorado River and learn more about the area’s Native American past. Popular with travellers looking to tick this iconic sight off of their bucket list, the Grand Canyon is a must see for anyone with a passion for travel.
Areas & Neighbourhoods in Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Village – Located on the South Rim of the Canyon, the small settlement of Grand Canyon Village offers accommodation and amenities to holidaymakers visiting the area. Many of the buildings in the village date from its founding in the early 20th Century. Some of the most iconic are Mary Colter’s Lookout Studio and Hopi House.
Hermit Road – This seven-mile long scenic route winds its way along the South Rim of the canyon from Grand Canyon Village to Hermits Rest. With breathtaking panoramic views along its entire length, this is a popular route for visitors to the canyon and can be enjoyed by foot, by bike and by bus. Why not book a Grand Canyon 4X4 Ride & South Rim Walking Tour.
Desert View – One of the best viewpoints in the Canyon, Desert View is located around 25 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. On a clear day, visitors will be able to see for over 100 miles, with views taking in the Painted Desert and the Navaho and Hopi Indian Reservations.
The North Rim – With just 10% of visitors to the Grand Canyon making the trip to the ‘other side’, the North Rim is a great destination for anyone who likes the road less travelled.
Things to See in Grand Canyon
Though the canyon itself takes top billing on the list of things to see in the area, the park that surrounds it also has a number of places of interest that visitors can explore. The iconic Desert View Watchtower, one of the most prominent man-made features on the canyon’s south rim, is easy to reach from the nearby viewpoint. Another popular sight is the 800-year old Tusayan Ruin which offers a fascinating glimpse into native life in the Canyon. Of course, if you really want to see the full magnificence of the Grand Canyon then you need to see it from the air with a Grand Canyon Spirit Tour.
Things to Do in Grand Canyon
Though it may look arid and empty from a distance, up close the Grand Canyon is teaming with activity and the area offers lots of activities for visitors of all ages. Holidaymakers who want to see the canyon from a different viewpoint can take a boat trip down the Colorado River and look up at its towering walls. Both white water and smooth water trips are available, with tours lasting anywhere from half a day to three weeks. Visitors that would like to get a bit more active during their stay in the canyon can explore the miles of hiking and biking trails that crisscross the park, taking in a number of spectacular views as they go.
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