Probably the single most amazing geological wonder in the world - over 3 million people come each year to view the Grand Canyon of the Colorado River. An abyss more than one mile deep, from four to eighteen miles wide and over 150 miles long in bright desert colors. Visitors are not disappointed by its immense beauty. This natural wonder inspires the imaginations and greatest respect for nature, expressed in so many different ways. This author has even attended weddings held here.

There are many different ways to explore the Grand Canyon, - Helicopter tours, whitewater rafting, backpacking hikes, overlook vistas from both the North Rim and South Rim.

How the canyon was formed is a mystery, satellite photos show that river runs thru the heart of an immense flat hill (kaibab) and deepens at the rate of 50ft per million years. What is left today are immense limestone and sandstone formations. Desert wildlife here is abundant - visitors can encounter sheep, rabbits, eagles, vultures, mountain lions, spiders, scorpions, snakes and more.

Earliest sign of human habitation dates to the Anasazi in 2000 BC. The first white men here were a party of Spaniards in 1540 - Coronado and his party were searching for Seven Cities of Gold of Cibola. In 1869 Maj. John Wesley Powell lead a major expedition (starting at Green River, Wyo.) down the length of the river canyon to Western Arizona. Only after the visits of John Wesley Powell in 1869 and 1871 did the canyon begin to get notoriety.

Please note that Northern Arizona is heavily visited in the summer (May-August) which makes getting reservations difficult. The best time to visit is March / April / September / Octoboer when there is beautiful weather and less competition for reservations.

Grand Canyon Features

Canyoneering the Trails - Guided tours up and down the canyon.
Air Tours - More guided tours.
South Rim - Park headquarters and attractions.
North Rim - More secluded but just as exciting of a lookout.
Phantom Ranch - Located in the bottom of the canyon. Wait to you here how you get there.
Navajo Bridge - Giant highway span over the canyon by US-89A.
Lee's Ferry - Early pioneer canyon crossing.
Tuweep - Sight of major volcanic activity.
Watchtower
Havasu Canyon - South canyon area popular for watersports.
Williams - Depot for the Grand Canyon Railway excursion tour.
Peach Springs - Gateway to the Grand Canyon Canverns.

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Kaibab N.F.

One of six National Forests in Arizona operating under the care of the USDA Forest Service. Whether it's a visit to Sycamore Canyon, Kendrick Mountain or Kanab Creek, visitors will not be disappointed with the natural pleasures that await in the Kaibab National Forest.

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All backcountry trips and camping require a permit - Grand Canyon National Park, PO Box 129, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023, 928-638-7875.

WARNING: - Most trails are very steeped and descend deep into the canyon (over 5,000 feet). Going down might be easy - but it is very hard work to hike back up. These hikes are recommended only for those in excellent physical condition. Also remember to bring lots of water.

South Rim trails are open year-round although snow will accumulate during the winter months. North Rim trails are open only May - October.

Another form of canyoneering is taking a Muleback Trip. Again these also require that you be in good physical condition, weight under 200 lbs and have a good command of the english language. Make reservations well in advance. Both one-day and overnite trips to Phantom Ranch are available.

• Bright Angel Trail - Most popular trail for descending into the canyon. This 9 mile trail starts at Bright Angel Lodge and descends 4460 feet to Phantom Ranch.

• South Kaibab Trail - Very steep 7 mile trail starts near Yaki Point (3.5 miles east of Grand Canyon Village). Descends into the canyon to a suspension foot bridge over the Colorado and onto Phantom Ranch. This trail is not recommended for trying to exit the canyon.

• North Kaibab Trail - 14.2 mile North Rim trail starts at head of Roaring Springs Canyon and descends 5840 feet to the river and Phantom Ranch.

• Rim Trail - Easy 3.5 mile trail follows the West Rim is less strenuous then the other trails. Trail runs from Maricopa Point to Yavapai Museum.

A very exciting (and fast) way to see the canyon is by aircraft or helicopter - you can see a lot more from the air than you can on foot. Most of the canyon is inaccessible by ground.

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Grand Canyon Railroad Tour
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Williams AZ Station Depot

Step aboard the Grand Canyon Railway for a trip to the majestic Grand Canyon you'll never forget. Feel the rumble of a vintage train as the engine chugs 65 miles across beautiful Northern Arizona countryside. The train offers kaleidoscopic views of the San Francisco Peaks and rolls through valleys adorned in wild flowers, dense pine forests, high desert plains and small canyons.

The excitement begins at the historic 1908 Williams Depot. Before the train departs watch for a Wild West shootout featuring the Cataract Creek Gang in an outdoor theater. The Grand Depot Cafe next to the depot serves a great buffet breakfast.

As the old iron horse chugs along, uniformed coach attendants provide you with white-gloved courtesy and service. Strolling musicians who conduct sing-a-longs, an Old West train robbery, and other antics.

A narrated motorcoach rim tour enhances your visit by escorting you to the most scenic overlooks of the Canyon. A hot buffet lunch is included with the tour.

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Williams Railroad Depot

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Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

45-minute flight from Las Vegas lands in the canyon bottom for a champagne picnic.

Grand Canyon Hummer Tour
West Rim VIP Tour

Your family can ride across the Mojave Desert in a specially equipped Hummer H2. See Joshua Tree Forests, ancient indian villages and enjoy a Cowboy Cookout lunch at Guano Point. Upgrade package includes helicopter ride to canyon bottom and boat trip down the river.

Grand Canyon Aerial Tour
Tour Rates as Low as $140