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The Grand
Canyon is located in the northwest corner of Arizona and encompasses over
one million acres of land and 277 miles of the Colorado River. The
Grand Canyon is known for its overwhelming size, breathtaking views
and its colorful landscape. Over 5 million people visit and explore this
national park each year.
The most popular areas are found on
the South Rim. These areas include the Grand Canyon Village, Hermits Rest Road, and
the Desert View Drive. The South Rim is the most
accessible part of the park and is open all year. The North Rim is located
10 miles directly across from the South Rim. Heavy snows close the North
Rim from mid-October to mid-May each year. The South Rim is 7000 feet above sea level, which means snow in
the winter
and cool nights even in the summer.
The Inner Canyon (below the rim) and along the Colorado River at
the bottom of the canyon can reach 120º F during the summer . The North Rim is 8000 feet above sea
level and can receive snow throughout most of the year. Weather is
particularly changeable in spring and fall and visitors should be prepared
for a variety of climates.
Day hiking
is a popular activity at the Grand Canyon. Many people hike short
distances into the Canyon. There are no easy trails to hike below the rim.
Trails below the rim are steep. It is essential that you are
properly prepared. Always check on trail conditions. Adequate water and
food are a must. Caution and common sense must be used at all times.
Overnight hikers may arrange to stay and eat at the Phantom Ranch located
in the Canyon. Reservations are required and all overnight visitors to the
inner canyon must obtain a backcountry permit. According the the National
Park Service, a trip to the bottom of
the canyon and back (on foot or by mule) is a two-day journey. Rim-to-rim
hikers generally take three days one-way to get from the North Rim to the
South Rim.
Some other
popular activities at the Grand Canyon National Park include viewing the
Canyon from the many lookout locations, horseback or mule riding and rafting on the Colorado
River. A trip through the Grand Canyon by raft can take two weeks or
longer. And a mule ride is a two day trip to the Colorado River and back
up to the South Rim. Reservations are necessary FAR in advance.
Camping is
available at several established campgrounds in the park or at private
campgrounds outside the park. All camping in the Inner Canyon require a
backcountry permit. Due to the large crowds during the spring, summer, and fall
months, advance reservations for camping and lodging are essential.
The Grand
Canyon is an amazing monument of geologic conditions over many millions of
years. The shear size and beauty of it will awe you. The adventures that
await you at this national park will forever be etched in your mind. Visit
the Grand Canyon
National Park website for more information.
Enjoy your camping
and hiking adventures!
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