what things should I see if I go to the Grand Canyon?

Answer 1

It depends on what you are interested in and which rim (north or south) you are visiting. The south rim is more developed, easier to get to, and (because it is at a lower elevation) is quite a bit warmer. The north rim is cooler, has pine trees, a single small lodge (more peaceful and intimate), but fewer overlooks and trails. The north rim is closed during the winter, starting in mid-October. I generally prefer the north rim during summer (Memorial Day through Labor Day) because it is cooler and the south rim is usually a crowded zoo with all the summer vacation visitors. The South Rim is usually best to visit in the fall and spring.

From either rim, the views of the Grand Canyon are among the most impressive natural scenic vistas in the world. Photographers and painters come here from all over the world for good reason. Popular overlooks on the South Rim are Mather, Yavapai, and Grandview Points. Cape Royale and Point Sublime (requires travel over a long dirt road) are the top north rim overlooks. Checking out the different view points, walking along the rim, and seeing the light change on the different formations at sunrise and sunset can be very relaxing and inspiring. There is also a lot of wildlife to be seen along both rims including deer, ravens, condors, numerous squirrels and chipmunks, and a chance of seeing coyotes and big horn sheep.

However, you can only stare at something for so long. I personally think the best way to experience the canyon is to hike into it a ways. Only looking at the canyon from the rim without going down inside is like looking at a great cathedral or castle in Europe without going in. You don't have to go all the way to the bottom (in fact, they don't recommend doing that as a day trip), but there are several nice little day hikes. On the South Rim, you can go down South Kiabab to Cedar Ridge or Hermit Trail to Dripping Springs (wear comfortable shoes, carry lots of water, and avoid hiking during the heat of mid day). There are few options on the North Rim, but going down the North Kaibab trail a few miles would be nice.

On the South Rim, If you are not into hiking, watching nature, or photography, there are also mule rides into the canyon (need reservations long in advance) and numerous interesting historic buildings like the 1930 Desert View Watchtower (made to look like a prehistoric ruin), the 1905 Hopi House gift shop (made to look like a Hopi Indian pueblo) and the grand 1905 El Tovar Hotel. There is a large IMAX movie theater just outside the South Rim park entrance. More extreme activities (like staying in Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon or white water rafting through the canyon) are generally very expensive and require reservations for months or years in advance.

On the North Rim, there is not much to do beyond hiking and absorbing the scenery (which is fine with many folks), but the surrounding area is very pretty and undeveloped. You are only a few miles from Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Lees Ferry and Lake Powell. If you are into mountain biking, the Rainbow Rim trail (west of the lodge) is a classic.

At either rim, I would highly recommend trying to stay inside the National Park at one of the lodges (as opposed to staying outside the park at a hotel). The lodges are pretty nice and you are right beside the rim so it is easy to watch the sunrise and sunset. You will want to have reservations well in advance at both rims (especially the north rim which has just the one lodge). Bright Angel Lodge and Maswik are my top price/quality pick for the South Rim lodges. Xanterra runs the park lodges and has a website for reservations (below).

Whatever rim you go to, you are sure to have a fun time and see things you will remember for the rest of your life.

Answer 2

Angel's point is impressive. Do some rafting if you are the adventurous type. I would take a day trip to Bryce Canyon. Although it is not a large of course I thought the colors were much more vivid and the rock formations more dramatic.
If you are into photography you are in for some spectacular treats nearly everywhere you go!
Link to the Grand Canyon site below.

Answer 3

Well, the Grand Canyon in itself is so awe inspiring that I can't even put it into words. Nothing you've ever seen on T.V or pictures can compare to the real thing. There really are no 'sites' to see but things to do. I went there on the Arizona side, so I'm sure it depends on which side your seeing it from.

But, there are Helicopter Tours that you can take or a ride down the Canyon on a mule. There is rafting down the Colorado or Snake river.

Enjoy your experience. It's worth the trip!

Answer 4

I would have a good look at the Grand Canyon.

Answer 5

maybe the grand canyon!! a natural caused hole in the earth

Answer 6

well, it´s just like a cultural place, of course it´s fantastic, having lunch at the mounts, hiking, biking, "deeping" (go down to the canyon) buying souvenirs, taking a lot pictures,,,, if ´u got some extra money, the best thing to do there is taking a chopper tour,,, and spending a night in a cabin........... specially with your couple....good luck & have lot of fun................................ Kunn......

Answer 7

well, water would be a really good thing to take.

Answer 8

a big hole