The Grand Canyon is a place of Spiritual Presence and Dramatic Visuals.
You will find dogs and donkeys at this mind-blowing place, along with a mixture of about 70 other mammals, 250 species of birds, 25 types of reptiles, and 5 amphibians.
Donkeys trudge resolutely up and down into the canyon carrying tourists and supplies. Dogs prance happily along the outer rim with their owners, pausing from time to time to take in the sheer magnificence of the world’s greatest example of the power of erosion.
The canyon is about 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide. It is cut into a rounded mountain, called the Kaibab Plateau, and at this point is estimated to be 3 to 6 million years in the making. Of course, the powerful forces of wind, water, snow, heat and frost are still sculpting buttes and carving out the sides of the cliffs. Ruins of ancient Indian pueblos can be found in the canyon and 5 Indian tribes live in the region to this day.
The South Rim is the most visited, indeed the North rim is closed due to weather in the winter. Drive or walk, you will see colors, creatures and sights beyond belief and find humility in the vastness and stillness of creation evolving with your every breath.
There are many lodging options from high to low end. There is also camping (book in advance especially in season). We camped – October – it was cold at night (it even snowed!) but fun and so impressive and memorable we have traveled across the country subsequently to experience it again.
Thoughts and Things
Pets are not permitted below the Rim of the Grand Canyon but are welcome on any trail above the perimeter including the spectacular South Rim trail.
The Lonely Planet Grand Canyon Guide is a trusted and comprehensive book for the traveler to the Grand Canyon and surrounding areas.
Whether you are doing a quick day trip just to ‘see it’ or spending a few days exploring the area – do so! It is a magical place and a fascinating history lesson into the power of nature, water, and time.
“Let this great wonder of nature remain as it now is. You cannot improve on it. But what you can do is keep it for your children, your children’s children, and all who come after you, as the one great sight which every American should see.” Teddy Roosevelt on the Grand Canyon in 1908. President Roosevelt declared the Grand Canyon a national park, understanding more than most it can only be seen to be understood.