Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular attractions in all of America. Every year, millions of tourists from around the world visit it and there is nothing strange about it, because nowhere else you would see something similar. The first encounter with this miracle of nature is an irrational experience.
The human eye is unable to grasp the enormity, it seems like the entire Canyon was in 3D. The view lose words and is breathtaking even for the greatest pessimists. It also encourages reflection on life and our meaning in comparison to something so wonderful created by the forces of nature.
The Canyon is so big that you can even see it from space. It is located in the northern part of Arizona, within the Grand Canyon National Park. The park was created in 1919, and in 1979 it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
In the deepest spot it has over 2000m, width varies from about 800m to 29km, and the length is 466km, almost as much as the length of Poland from east to west. It is inhabited by 355 species of birds, 89 species of mammals, 17 species of reptiles, 9 species of amphibians and 17 species of fish.
Visiting Grand Canyon – South Rim
The southern edge of the Canyon (South Rim) is more developed and popular, it is chosen by 90% of tourists. So you have to prepare yourself for the larger or smaller crowds depending on the season. The southern side is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. As a starting point I recommend the towns of Wiliams or Flagstaff. These towns are relatively close to the Canyon, and the prices of hotels are definitely lower than at the Canyon itself. About 40 minutes drive from Flagstaff, you find Sedona. This is the most beautiful town in entire Arizona.
Sedona
Sedona
After reaching Ground Canyon Village, you can leave your car in the parking lot and get around with a free bus, or go further and explore sights on your own. Thanks to the exposed layers, we can admire 6 million years of geological history of the earth.
Once the area was inhabited by Navajo Indians. To this day, you can see the remains of their buildings. And the Indians, although they moved out of the Park, can be found along the access roads where they sell their own crafts. The area of the park can also be admired from a floating boat on the Colorado River or from the helicopter. Depending on the option that we buy, it can also land on the bottom of the Canyon.
Visiting Grand Canyon – North Rim
The North Rim of the Canyon is located in a straight line from the southern edge just about 16 km. However, in order to reach it, we have to travel practically the entire Canyon, or about 354 km. Visiting the southern and northern edges of one day is practically impossible. The northern part is much less frequented and more wild. It is open from May 15 to October 15, infrastructure is poorer and hiking trails deep into the Canyon require better preparation and experience from tourists.
Horseshoe Bend
On the northern side of the Canyon near Lake Powell and the town of Page, there is a so-called Horseshoe Bend. At this point, the Colorado River winds between the rocks, creating one of the most beautiful views on earth.
Horseshoe Bend
Current news about the conditions prevailing in the park (e.g. road availability) you will find Here.