The Grand Canyon is one of many great American attractions that everyone should see at least once. It is not only a great place for sight seeing, but you can enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation activities. From its history to its majestic beauty, it has a way of capturing the attention of all who visit. However, if you have never visited the Grand Canyon you may have many questions as to when to come, what to see, and more. The following tips will help you plan a great trip to the Grand Canyon.
Best Time of Year
Although summer is incredibly hot in the Grand Canyon, that is the time of year when most people visit. They come during the summer to camp and spend time at the Grand Canyon when their families are out of school and able to vacation. Although it is a good time to visit, it is also crowded. If you are looking to avoid the crowds, try coming after Labor Day and before Memorial Day. The Grand Canyon is beautiful year round and is enjoyed just as much in the winter as it is during the summer.
Getting Here
Although some people can just hop in the car and drive to the Grand Canyon, not all families have that luxury. If you are traveling via airplane, there are two major airports to fly into; The Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, or Phoenix’s Sky Harbor Airport. The drive to the Grand Canyon is shorter from Las Vegas than from Phoenix, but if you are looking to see more of the area and surrounding attractions, the drive from Phoenix is worth the extra time.
Must-Do
Many people come, take in the spectacular view of South Rim and miss out on the full experience. For Starters the view at sunset is the best, so be sure if the only thing you do is look over the South Rim that you do it at sunset. However, to have the full experience you need to take a hike down into the canyon. For a short hike, try the three mile hike along the Kaibab Trail to Cedar Ridge or for more avid hikers the six mile hike to Skeleton Point makes for a great adventure.
Other fun activities for the outdoors enthusiasts include white water rafting, camping, fishing, horseback riding and much more. It is definitely a haven for those who love spending time in nature.
Must-Avoid
Television shows and movies have glorified riding mules into the Grand Canyon, when the truth is you do not want ride a mule into the canyon. The adventure companies that offer mule rides take the fun out of it by placing a multitude of rules and regulations, not to mention the fact that the mules smell terrible. Additionally if you are afraid of heights, riding on a mule down a narrow cliff pathway is not necessarily something you want to do.
There are many things to consider when planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, and by taking these tips into consideration you are on your way to planning a great vacation.
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