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 for many 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 from the South Rim. There are also a multitude of things to do on this side – from the free shuttle, to ranger programs, museums, visitor center, and a 3 hour Canyon Vistas mule ride that travels along the canyon rim.
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.
Quick 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.