Grand Canyon Vacation Ideas
The Grand Canyon National Park is one of the Seven Wonders of the World and therefore needs no introduction. As a result, anyone opportune enough to visit this famous place in the Southwest can do so more than once and still never see it exactly the same way twice.
It boasts several National Historic Landmarks like the Desert Watchtower, Hopi House, and Hermit’s Rest. This means that there is no shortage of adventurous ideas when you embark on your tour to the Grand Canyon.
With that said, the following are some of the most notable places to see when you get there:
Black Suspension Bridge
Black Suspension Bridge, also known as the Kaibab Bridge, connects the North Rim to the South Rim through the Kaibab Trail, and was built in 1928. It was the first safe passageway for travelers to use from north to south Kaibab. Before its creation, the only way to cross the Colorado River was to use a steel cage held precariously with a cableway. Today, it is still one of the bridges that traverse the Colorado River, and aside from the nearby Silver Bridge, Black Suspension Bridge is the only accessible one for hundreds of miles.
With its unique standing, the bridge has become quite popular among rim-to-rim hikers, visitors taking inner canyon mule rides, and those wishing to see Phantom Ranch. Regardless of how many days at Grand Canyon you intend to spend, the bridge offers a spectacular view from 65 feet above the Colorado River.
Bright Angel History Room
Mary Colter is the genius architect to whom the Bridge Angel History Room is dedicated. It is located within Bright Angel Lodge in Grand Canyon Village and boasts a rock fireplace reflective of Mary’s architectural style. Tourists may notice that the geological framework of the rocks in the fireplace reflects the same sequence as those from the Colorado River to the rim along the Bright Angel Trail. The fireplace applies the use of granite-veined rock that is millions of years old and showcases the natural environment of the Grand Canyon–as well as the painstaking perfectionist character seen within Mary’s architectural choices.
Horseshoe Bend
Along with Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend is considered to be the best place to see the Grand Canyon for those wanting to visit it from the eastern side. It is located five miles outside Grand National Park in Glen Canyon, and one of its main draws is the spectacular views offered to both visitors and enthusiast photographers. You can also choose several touring options that will help you truly experience Horseshoe Bend–whether from the river, on foot, or in the air.
Havasu Falls
Havasu Falls is one of the most remarkable falls in the Grand Canyon, and even though it may be difficult to reach, it is worth every hurdle for anyone who wants to see this green-blue waterfall. Reaching it involves a 10-mile hike into the canyon. This place draws in thousands of visitors every year, so you need to start making plans early if you intend to visit, but it is worth the trip to see the turquoise, beautiful waters. The only thing you may require is a bit of patience.
Final Thoughts
The Grand Canyon is a big place, but the information provided above is intended to help you find the right adventure and plan for your trip. Be it a leisurely half-day tour of the South Rim, a relaxing water river tour, a multi-day trek to Havasu Falls, or a rejuvenating weeklong Grand Circle adventure–there is something for every visitor to see and enjoy at the Grand Canyon.
