Why You Need to Visit the Grand Canyon

“Grand” doesn’t seem to be a grand enough word for this magnificent offering from Mother Nature. This beautiful scar upon the earth measures nearly 280 “river miles”, is as many as 18 miles wide in places, and about a mile deep – one of the earth’s true natural wonders. Read on as we continue to explain why you need to visit the Grand Canyon.

The Colorado River has helped create and expand the canyon for over 6 million years. People have been flocking to its rims for hundreds of years. The Grand Canyon is an official UNESCO site managed by the country’s National Parks Service. This is not a place that any photo can do justice – you really have to see it to feel it.

It’s one of those places where, if you could visit and have the place all to yourself, you’d begin contemplating our small place in the cosmos – unfortunately, this is such a popular destination that more than 6 million people every year have the same idea. The South Rim is perhaps the most crowded, as this is where Bright Angel Trail and the Grand Canyon Village are located, both quite popular with tourists. If you want at least somewhat of a respite from crowds, try the North Rim. You’ll find plenty of open space perfect for backwoods camping and, if you’re up for it, some hardcore hiking. And if you really want to see the canyon in all its splendor, reserve a spot on a helicopter tour.

Again, if you’re hoping to avoid the crowds, visiting the canyon from March through May or from September to November is the best time. The daytime temps are cooler, too. Visiting during the summer, the park’s highest visitor turnout season, be aware there will be large crowds and not much left for lodging. While you can visit this area of Arizona during the winter, note that the majority of the park closes once the first snowfall hits. South Rim is open year-round.

You’ll likely not spend all your time in the park and you’ll probably get hungry at some point – especially if you’re taking part in hiking excursions. While other national parks have little in the way of dining, you’ll find multiple restaurants and grocers at the Grand Canyon, so there is no need to pack tons of food and supplies. Grand Canyon Village has just about everything you could need for a fun visit. When planning your stay, consider lodging at Bright Angel Lodge or El Tovar Hotel.