The Grand Canyon is more than a great abyss carved through the rocks of the Colorado plateau. It is a pleasure ground for those who love the many moods and gifts of nature. The National Park covers more than 1.2 million acres and the vast majority of the park is inaccessible due to the predominance of cliffs, and inhospitable to all but desert plants and animals. The Colorado River bisects the canyon and hikers can cross the river only at Phantom Ranch.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
THE SOUTH RIM is open 365 days a year, seven days a week. This side of the Grand Canyon averages 7000 ft above sea level. Visitors with respiratory or heart problems may experience difficulties. All walking at this elevation can be strenuous.
NORTH RIM is over 8000 feet above sea level.
INNER CANYON / BACKCOUNTRY Here you will be hiking in a desert climate, where water and protection from the elements make the difference between life and death.
RIVER TRIPS Whitewater rafting trips through the canyon last from 3-21 days and require reservations well in advance. There are three types of river trips on the Colorado River through Grand Canyon National Park: Commercial river trips (open to the public and are often reserved far in advance), Private River Trips (also called non-commercial river trips), One-Day Trips (half-day and all-day trips on the Colorado River but may not be within Grand Canyon National Park)
TUWEEP / TOROWEAP This area is on the northwest rim of the Grand Canyon in the remote Arizona Strip. The Kanab Plateau rises sharply to the east, while the volcanic Pine/Uinkaret Mountains form the western margin of Toroweap Valley. The view from Toroweap Overlook, 3000 vertical feet above the Colorado River, is breathtaking; the sheer drop, dramatic! Equally impressive are the volcanic features, cinder cones and lava flows, which make this viewpoint unique in Grand Canyon National Park.
WILDLIFE The Grand Canyon area is full of tame squirrels, ravens, coyotes, deer, and elk. They are accustomed to human handouts but can turn aggressive without warning. If wildlife approaches you, back slowly away and give them space.
ACTIVITIES
Grand Canyon is well known for lodging, camping, backcountry permits, or mule trips.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Auto Touring
Backpacking
Biking
Bird Watching
Boating
Camping
Cross Country Skiing
Fishing
Hiking
Horseback Riding
Interpretive Programs
Nature Walks
Snowshoeing
Whitewater Rafting
Wildlife Viewing
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