One of the most spectacular natural features in North America and perhaps the world, the Grand Canyon of the Colorado River extends for hundreds of miles across a portion of the southwestern Colorado Plateau.  Here the river winds it way through a network of huge amphitheatres, spectacular tributary canyons, and isolated plateaus and mesas. The vertical drop to the river from the vast plateaus surrounding the canyon is more than 2000 meters, spanning more life zones than exist within any other U.S. national park.

History of Grand Canyon

        Humans have lived in or near the Grand Canyon for at least 4000 years. Archaic peoples occupied the caves and rock shelters of the canyon walls, leaving behind rock shrines and hundreds of split twig figurines that were probably used in ceremonies or as hunting talismans. By the early centuries A.D., several cultures lived within and around the canyon. Based on the archaeological record, the Kayenta Anasazi were the largest and most extensive presence, but the Cohonina people were also present on the South Rim. Permanent farming settlements were established on the South Rim around 700 A.D. and on the North Rim by 900 A.D.; these communities were successful for several hundred years. The well-preserved Tusayan ruins on the South Rim provide modern visitors a glimpse of the lifestyle of these early farmers. Pueblo peoples moved into the canyon and began farming arable patches of land about 1050 A.D. This was a relatively short-lived venture since the climate started to become drier and warmer about this time. By 1150, all of the settlements in and around the canyon had been abandoned, probably at least in part due to prolonged periods of drought.

        The only exception to this exodus were several sites near Havasu Creek, an area within the canyon with fertile land and a reliable water source, which remain occupied by the Havasupai Indians  today. The Havasupai are the only tribe still living in the canyon today, while their close relatives the Hualapai live along the southern rim of the canyon west of the national park. Navajo peoples live in the Navajo Nation just east of the park, but are only known to have occupied the canyon when a group of them fled from the relocation campaign of Kit Carson in 1863 in the Wuptaki Basin and other southern regions. The Southern Paiute Indians occupy land north of the Colorado River along the Arizona Strip and have traditionally used the canyon for hundreds of years.

Grand Canyon Today

     Hundreds of canyons and gorges mark Arizona's northwest corner. The grandest of them all is the Grand Canyon. Branching off from it are countless side canyons, with waterfalls, rapids, and pools.

About six million years ago, the Colorado River began cutting the gorge that is now the Grand Canyon. Now the canyon measures 217 miles long, 10 miles from rim to rim at its widest, and nearly a mile at its deepest. Paleo-Indians were the first to gaze upon the canyon, followed by the Spaniards. In 1869, John Wesley Powell, the first to chart the area, led a nine-man scientific expedition down the Colorado River. Today, the Grand Canyon National Park is one of the nation's most visited parks.

The Grand Canyon is one of the seven wonders of the world. It is a mile deep, 277 miles long, and took more than two billion years to form.

 Interesting Things to do while in the Grand Canyon

    In the north rim, you can see fabulous views, as well has hiking and camping spots. Hardy hikers can cross the canyon to the north rim in about three days. Because of dangerous snows, however, the north rim is closed from the first snowfall until the middle of May. 

Most visitors go to the south rim, since it is easier to reach. Lining the rim are lodges, restaurants, and viewing points, many with telescopes. Mather Point is an idea spot for surveying the canyon's formations and colors. Other lookout points along the rim include Hopi Point, Mohave Point, and Desert View.

        U.S. Route 180 runs right up to the Grand Canyon Village on the gorge's south rim. Visitors can take a nostalgic, 64 mile train ride to the park on the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams. 

        There are many ways to enjoy the Grand Canyon. Some people hike the famous Bright Angel Trail down to the bottom of the Canyon, arriving at Phantom Ranch lodge. Other takes mule trips down to the Canyon, raft on the Colorado River, or fly over the canyon in a helicopter or airplane from Grand Canyon Airport. 

Mule Rides

        For those who want to explore the Grand Canyon but don't care to hike, mule trips are scheduled from both the South Rim and the North Rim. 

        South Rim: Rides depart from Bright Angel trailhead. Day trips or overnight stays are offered year-round.

   

Riders must weigh less than 200 pounds dressed and with such items as camera equipment included. They must be at least 4-feet-7 and be able to mount and dismount unassisted. Riders must be fluent in English and should not be pregnant. Day trips go down Bright Angel Trail, through Indian Gardens on the Tonto Plateau and out to an overlook at Plateau Point, with a view of the Colorado River 1,300 feet below. The trip is 12 miles and takes about seven hours. Lunch is provided, but bathroom breaks are few.

        Overnight trips go down Bright Angel Trail into the inner gorge, along the Colorado River, over a bridge and along Bright Angel Creek to Phantom Ranch, the guest ranch on the river. Meals and cabin accommodations are provided. The next morning, riders travel out of the Canyon via South Kaibab Trail and are back on the rim in time for lunch.

        North Rim: Rides depart from the North Kaibab Trailhead.  Day rides travel 10 miles, descending 3,700 feet to Roaring Springs.  Riders must be at least 12 years old and weigh less than 200 pounds.  Lunch and a canteen are included.  Half-day trips travel four miles, descending 1,700 feet to Supai Tunnel. Riders must be at least 8 years old and weigh less than 200 pounds. There are water breaks and restrooms.  The one-hour ride on the rim follows the Ken Patrick Trail.  Riders must be 5 years or older and weigh less than 220 pounds.

Hotels Found in the Grand Canyon Area

        If you would ever come to visit and enjoy the Grand Canyon, listed below are some hotels that you might stay at. 

The Grand Hotel and Canyon Star: This hotel brings you some of the finest independent national & international hotels and other accommodations in Europe, the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. Whether you are planning a dream vacation or traveling on business, you will enjoy the sophistication, charm and elegance of our unique lodging facilities.

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