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Viewing Walking the USA: Exploring the Vastness of the Grand CanyonWalking the USA: Exploring the Vastness of the Grand Canyon
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For anyone considering going walking in the USA, one place is likely to be a big draw: the Grand Canyon. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the USA, seeing five million visitors each year. Here are some tips and helpful advice. By Tony Maniscalco When it comes to walking, USA holidays provide many opportunities for some truly excellent hiking experiences. For anyone considering going walking in the USA, there is one place that is likely to be a big draw, being one of the most famous natural landmarks in the world: the Grand Canyon. At 277 miles long and 18 miles wide, the Grand Canyon is simply vast. It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in the USA, seeing five million visitors each year. The huge majority of people visit just to look, but there are some excellent hiking opportunities for those who want to get up close and personal to the canyon. Visiting the Grand Canyon The Grand Canyon is ideal for people who enjoy energetic walking. USA breaks to the Grand Canyon are easy to arrange, but the question with something so big, is - where to actually visit? When you visit the Grand Canyon, there are two areas where you can go: the South Rim on the Arizona side and the North Rim on the Utah side. The South Rim is by far the most popular side to visit, and it gets very busy during peak tourist season. The reason for this is that it is the most accessible side, and it is open throughout the year. The North Rim is less accessible, and the road is closed from October to May due to snow. It is also wilder and more secluded than the South Rim, which makes it particularly appealing to hikers. Walking in the Grand Canyon Walking in the Grand Canyon is the perfect way to fully appreciate its size and beauty. However, for anyone who likes walking, USA authorities are quite clear that it can be hard going even for experienced hikers. Extremes of hot and cold are quite common, and the sides are very steep. This means you should take plenty of food and water with you, and make sure you are in good physical condition before you begin your hike. Of course, if you are with a walking group and an experienced leader, all the practicalities will be taken care of for you. Hiking Trails Two of the most popular trails are the South Kaibab Trail and the Bright Angel Trail, both of which are good options when you go walking. The Bright Angel Trail is two miles longer, but it includes a stop off at Indian Garden for a rest, where you can find water, toilets, and a ranger station. The South Kaibab Trail is shorter, but there is nowhere to stop and rest. However, it is very beautiful and takes you across the Colorado River on a bridge high above the water. It is 21 miles rim-to-rim, and one mile up and down the walls, making it an overnight trip for most people. If you can't decide which trail to try, then you can always do them both by taking the Kaibab down and the Angel up again. Things to Be Aware Of Walking in the Grand Canyon is a real adventure, but there are a few things you should be aware of before you start your hike. • Always take a map. • Watch out for scorpions and snakes. • Don't try to go down and up in one day. • When you go walking, USA authorities require you to have a backcountry permit if you are hiking overnight. • Remember to carry all rubbish and dispose of it in the proper disposal facilities. Enjoy Walking in the Grand Canyon For those who love walking, USA trips offer so much to enjoy, and the Grand Canyon is surely one of the highlights. Plan your trip properly, (even better, let the experts plan it for you!), make sure you take all the precautions, and you will be sure to have an amazing time exploring this incredible wonder of the world. About the Author: Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. They offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in over 65 different countries. Join our walking USA tours with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, and you will see scenic locations and landscapes at value prices. Article source: 111 Travel Directory: Triple1.com (triple one dot com) |
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