The natural wonders of the United States are something you cannot find anywhere else in the world. From the stunning peaks of Alaska to the red-rock canyons of Utah and everything in between, there’s no shortage of spectacular places to explore. With so many fabulous locations to choose from, it might be hard to narrow down your list. But not all national parks are created equal. If you’re looking for a natural attraction where you can get up close with nature and experience something you won’t find anywhere else, look no further than The Grand Canyon. This majestic wonder is more than just a canyon: It’s one of the seven natural wonders of the world!
Why is the Grand Canyon so famous?
The Grand Canyon is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world because it’s so unique and majestic. There’s no other place like it on the planet. The canyon is so large that if you stood at the bottom and looked up, you couldn’t see the top! The canyon was created by the Colorado River over millions of years, cutting through layers of rock to form a gorge of truly epic proportions. The views from the South Rim, which is the most popular part of the canyon and the place you’ll want to visit, is incredible. You can see for miles in all directions, and the colors are simply stunning. While the Grand Canyon is most famous for being one of the most visually stunning natural wonders in the world, it also has a rich cultural and natural history. It’s home to numerous plants and animals, including the endemic Grand Canyon Squirrel. And the canyon itself is a destination for archaeologists who study its rich history, which dates back more than 2,000 years. You can find remnants of ancient Native American cultures, Spanish explorers, and American frontiersmen who frequented the canyon. You can even visit the famous Hualapai Indian Village at the Grand Canyon.
When to visit The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is open 365 days a year, but the best times to visit are spring and fall. This is prime time to see the famous “canyon colors,” when the desert landscape transforms into a stunning array of reds, oranges, and yellows as the weather cools. The summer months are understandably busiest (and also the hottest!), so if you want a more low-key experience, visiting in spring or fall is the way to go. If you want to hit the hiking trails near The Grand Canyon, spring and fall are the best times to go. Mid-April through mid-May is wildflower season. You’ll find an abundance of desert flowers, including the iconic Arizona poppies. And from September to November, the aspens turn golden yellow and create a magical scene.
Where to stay near The Grand Canyon
If you’re visiting The Grand Canyon, staying as close as possible to the park is always recommended. You’ll be able to explore the park more easily, avoiding long car trips. Plus, it’s much easier to get to the park without having to deal with traffic on the way in and out! If you are looking for a place to stay, you will find a wide variety of options, from luxurious hotels to small-town B&Bs. You will also find plenty of options in between, including campgrounds and cabins. No matter where you stay, you’re sure to have an amazing experience exploring this natural wonder.
Things to do at The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon has endless things to do, from hiking to exploring museums. The Grand Canyon National Park has a wide variety of hiking trails, including some that are wheelchair accessible. There are also plenty of spots to take amazing photos. And if you’re more into relaxing, don’t worry! There is plenty of scenic overlooks you can visit for amazing views of the canyon. If you’re traveling with kids, the Grand Canyon has lots of family-friendly activities. You can visit the Hopi House where you can learn about the Native American tribes who call the canyon home. You can also take the Grand Canyon Railway, a historic train that runs from Williams to the South Rim. And don’t forget to visit the Grand Canyon Visitor’s Center!
Tips for traveling to and around The Grand Canyon
If you’re visiting The Grand Canyon, you’ll want to make sure you have an amazing car rental experience. There are lots of things to keep in mind when renting a car. You must be at least 25 years old to rent a car in the U.S., and you’ll want to make sure you choose the correct car type for your travel plans. If you’re bringing your car from one state to another, you’ll need to take a car ferry. These ferries are free and operated by the U.S. government. You can find the location of the ferry nearest you by visiting the National Park Service website.
How Many Visitors?
According to the National Park Service, nearly 6 million people visit The Grand Canyon each year. If you visit The Grand Canyon during the high season, you will find that it can get extremely busy. If you want to have the best experience possible, visit the canyon during the off-season, or plan to stay near the Grand Canyon during the high-traffic times.