Grand Canyon
From LoveToKnow Travel
Getting to the Grand Canyon
Traveling to the Canyon is possible from a variety of roads and directions. There are, however, two primary entrances to the park: the North Rim and the more popular South Rim. Both Rims offer visitors a similar activities and lodging choices. The popularity of the South Rim means that it often becomes crowded, particularly at the height of the summer season.
The South Rim is very accessible from Route 64, which is most likely the reason it is such a popular choice of tourists. This route runs through or past many other popular sites, such as the Grand Canyon Village. Busses and coach services to the South Rim can also be found in nearby towns and cities, such as Flagstaff (Arizona), Las Vegas (Nevada), Los Angeles (California), and Phoenix (Arizona).
Tours from these cities and from others offer numerous excursion opportunities to the Grand Canyon. These range from simple day visits to extended weeklong discovery tours that allow visitors to take in all of the sights.
For the more lavish traveler wishing to experience the sights of the Canyon from a birds-eye view, several travel companies also offer helicopter trips to this natural marvel. Most of these companies will even pick guests up from various nearby towns and cities, including Las Vegas and Phoenix. One of the more prominent companies providing these tours is Papillon. Like most companies, Papillon provides a range of services and travel options to choose from.
Activities
Visitors looking to visit and explore the Grand Canyon need to first purchase a permit. Vehicles must pay a flat rate of $20, which allows access to the site for a week. In addition, a $10 permit must be purchased in order to roam the area. These permits can be bought from numerous kiosks, shops, and travel centers throughout the site and the surrounding region.
There are many activities available to those who visit the Grand Canyon. Tourists have the opportunity to hike, bike, ride, or raft their way through the Canyon. In addition, there is no shortage of rental options or trails for people to undertake. When traveling by foot or bike, however, it is best to stick to marked routes. Horse and donkey rides to the bottom of the canyon are also available for those who prefer not to walk.
The Colorado River, which runs right through the Grand Canyon, provides a variety of additional activities to visitors. From placid waters to raging torrents, rafts, kayaks, and boats can travel down the river. Beginners can rent boats and explore the river with the help of a guide, while those with a little more experience may choose to tackle the waters on their own.
Lodging at the Grand Canyon
Due to the popularity of the Canyon, a number of accommodation options have popped up on both the North and the South Rim. Hotels, lodges, hostels, and camping options are all available. Places to stay can be found either on the Rims or in the surrounding area, such as in the town of Tusayan near the South Rim. Tusayan offers a range of international hotels, including Best Western and Holiday Inn.
A variety of camping sites can also be found on the Rims of the Grand Canyon. Some of these sites are very basic amenities, while others supply a few more amenities. For visitors wishing to camp below the Rim, it is necessary to obtain a Backcountry permit first.
Cautions
When visiting the Grand Canyon, it is important to be aware of conditions that may be encountered. The varying levels of the Grand Canyon cause some sections to be cool while others are extremely hot. Visitors need to come prepared for these conditions. Hikers or other outdoor enthusiasts must be sure to keep plenty of fluids on hand and to protect themselves from the sun. Parents also need to be sure to keep children well-hydrated and protected. Each year, hundreds of people suffering from intense heat, dehydration, or sheer exhaustion are rescued from the Grand Canyon. Going down may be simple, but it is important to remember that going up offers a whole new challenge.
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