10
Ways To See Arizona Wonders by Cecilia Valenzuela
Are you
thinking of visiting one of the world's seven wonders known as the Grand
Canyon? With so many things to see and do at the Grand Canyon, it is no
wonder that over five million people come to see this very famous attraction.
| If
you are planning to visit the Grand Canyon either as a 1-Day-Activity or
if you wish to make a week of it, there are plenty of options.
Here
are 10 ways to explore the Grand Canyon. Many people could easily spend
all day just looking at this magical wonder, but there are other ways you
can enjoy the mighty Grand Canyon.
If
you are pressed for time, it is certainly still feasible to enjoy the Grand
Canyon as a 1-Day activity; you may just feel a little rushed. If you leave
early and prepare yourself for a long day, it can be done.
If
you are a traveler who has a little extra time, you would likely appreciate
taking that extra day or two and view the other sightseeing attractions
as you make your way to the Grand Canyon.
Many
visitors spend the night in another town, such as Sedona, Arizona, where
the beauty of the red-rock will astound you. If you choose to drive from
the Phoenix, Arizona metropolitan area, plan on about 4.5 hours of travel
time to get to the Grand Canyon. |
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If
you decide to stay in Flagstaff before traveling to Grand Canyon National
Park, it is approximately 80 miles away, which should take about an hour
and a half to drive there. If you stay in Sedona, the Canyon is about a
two-hour drive.
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The
Grand Canyon National Park offers a free shuttle at the South Rim in Grand
Canyon Village, along Hermit Road. Note that these shuttles provide transportation
only and are not considered tour buses. (Bus Tours are available, however.)
You are required to exit the bus to view the Canyon. Also note that if
you have physical challenges, most shuttles are inaccessible to wheelchairs.
Here
are 10 excellent ways to explore the Grand Canyon.
1.
Go boating or rafting. There are plenty of companies who are willing
to take you on a very specialized tour-guided river experience inside the
Grand Canyon. If you choose to go rafting, though, keep in mind that the
water can get a little rough at times, but you will certainly be in good
hands with your tour guide and required life jacket. |
If
you are timid about water, consider the fact that the Colorado River through
the Grand Canyon is said to be one of the wildest stretches of white water
in the United States.
2.
Go hiking. Many hiking trails exist throughout the area. The South
Rim is where the most popular hike is. The name of this trail on the South
Rim is named Bright Angel Trail, located near Grand Canyon Village.
On
the North Rim, the most popular hiking trail is North Kaibab. (No permit
is required here.)
No
permit is needed for day hiking, but you will need a permit if you choose
to camp inside the Grand Canyon, as dictated by the National Park Service.
The most popular backpacking site is the Bright Angel Campground. Bright
Angel Campground is located at the end of Bright Angel Trail.
| 3.
If you are not afraid of heights, you can always try out the new Grand
Canyon Skywalk which recently opened this past spring! The Skywalk is officially
open from dawn to dusk, seven days a week. It first opened March 28, 2007,
and from all accounts, is something very special and exciting.
4.
Take a helicopter or a mule ride inside the Canyon. You will find
several companies who will give you a bird's eye view down inside the Canyon.
The
Grand Canyon Skywalk is the first walkway to suspend more than 4,000 feet
above the Canyon floor. It extends 70 feet from the rim and is located
at Grand Canyon West's Eagle Point.
5.
Take a helicopter ride. Tours originate at either the Grand Canyon
Airport, five miles south of the park entrance or in Sedona. |
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6.
Drive to the South Rim and park your car and walk to the edge of the Grand
Canyon. If you don't like large groups, or if you just prefer doing things
on your own time, you certainly have this option.
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7.
You can access the Grand Canyon Railway train for some fun, too. Sit back
and relax! Jump the train in Williams, Arizona, where it will escort you
precisely to Grand Canyon Village.
8.
Take a bus tour. Many tour companies are available for your tour
to the Grand Canyon.
9.
Take a Jeep Tour. If you like the wilderness, you will find that
these Jeep tours are a great way to take in limitless nature along with
Native American Indian history, culture and more.
10.
Settle for an Audio Tour. You can also opt for your own personal
guide on a CD. These are also available to visitors and provide a learning
experience at every listeners own pace. |
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About
the Author: Cecilia Valenzuela is a full-time small business entrepreneur
who resides in Arizona. Cecilia Valenzuels works alongside other small
business owners who are also working online in their quest to become successful.
For more information on the Grand Canyon along with history, facts, tips,
and more about living in the desert southwest, you can find out more at
http://www.My-Arizona-Desert-Living.com |