The Grand Canyon is one of the most amazing natural wonders in all of North America. But it's also one of the most vast. If you only have a limited time at the Grand Canyon, what should you be sure to see? Here are the top locations at each of the four sides of the canyon.
1. South Rim. The South Rim is probably the most famous, and it's a great choice for first time visitors. You can see all the way to the bottom of the canyon and experience multiple stunning vistas. This side of the canyon is easily reached from towns like Flagstaff and Williams and has lots of tourism and resort facilities. The downside is that this same popularity means you'll battle more crowds than at other locations.
2. East Rim. The east side of the Grand Canyon is lesser known, and this makes it a haven for hikers, campers, and those who want to get away from the crowds. The most famous section is Horseshoe Bend, which is a photo that you've probably seen many times over the years. You'll have much more visual access to the Colorado River as well.
3. West Rim. The west side is best know for the Grand Canyon Skywalk. Built on Hualapia tribal land, the skywalk is a recent attraction that allows visitors to walk on a glass bridge over the open vastness of the canyon itself. You can also see the famous Havasu Canyon with its beautiful waterfalls. This section of the Grand Canyon is easiest to reach from the Las Vegas area, so it's a good choice for those making the side trip from Sin City.
4. North Rim. Because it's harder to reach, the North Rim has stayed much closer to its wilderness roots than the busy South Rim. It's also higher and so is more likely to be closed in the winter. The North Rim is a great place to marvel at the 18 mile width of this great gorge and get a more personal experience than the tourist-friendly south side. Be sure to stay at the 1920s-era Grand Canyon Lodge while you're basking in the grandeur.
Whatever you want to see, start your Grand Canyon adventure with a guided tour of this national treasure. You'll be able to see the highlights of the area and still have time to visit the locations that will make your trip one for a lifetime. For more information, contact your local Grand Canyon tours company.