About Grand Canyon National Park

Whether your trip route takes you to the South Rim or the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, it’s the grand-daddy of all the National Parks in Canyon Country, as well as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

The canyon’s less-visited North Rim offers a different perspective on the Grand Canyon with just as many oohs, and aahs — but far fewer people.  It’s even a little cooler over here, thanks to the higher elevation (about 1,000 feet higher!).  Some refer to the North Rim as “the connoisseur’s Grand Canyon.” Roads to the major overlooks are well marked, easy to follow and reveal different views of the canyon and surrounding landscape.

Although the Grand Canyon is spectacular when viewed from the top, you will get a whole different sense of the canyon when you drop below “the rim”. The park is a dream come true for hikers, and there are trails that will challenge even the fittest visitor.  The classic way to travel down to the bottom of the canyon is by mule, because you can let the mule do all the hard work!  Those mule tours are so popular that they are usually booked up 13 months in advance.  However, if you are staying at the North Rim, we can book a half-day mule ride for you – just ask!

Nearly five million people see the Grand Canyon each year, and 90% of them visit the South Rim. There are also a multitude of things to do on this side. The free shuttle bus system takes you to visitor information centers, scenic overlooks, trailheads, and historic lodges with restaurants; ranger programs offer talks on topics such as geology, wildlife, or cultural history; and there are several museums here. Rent bikes, take a guided bike tour or mule ride along the canyon rim, and even see the Grand Canyon from the sky in a helicopter tour.

The Grand Canyon is on a lot of people’s “Bucket List” of things they just have to see before they die. And once you see it, you’ll understand why.  Frankly, the park is so large and has so many things to see and do that it’s hard to really cover it all.

Interesting Facts About the Grand Canyon National Park

• Though there is no doubt that the canyon is grand, the Grand Canyon actually sets no records for depth, length or width.
• The park covers more than a million acres.