The Grand Canyon

The deep gorges of the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is a deep and steep canyon located in the Grand Canyon National Park in the state of Arizona (USA). The water of the Colorado River flows through this long and imposing gorge, giving the Canyon its distinctive jagged shape like a true sculptor. Only recently have scientists discovered that thunderstorms play an important role in the formation of the canyon. The showers are responsible for the so-called ‘flashfloods’, whereby the rocks are ground further and deeper.

Grand Canyon climate

In the summer, the temperature at the bottom of the Canyon can reach up to 43 degrees! Those who want to hike should therefore choose the months September to November. However, in the months of August and September, the chance of rain is slightly higher. April and May are also good months for hiking in the Canyon, but if you visit the canyon in the spring or autumn, keep in mind that the higher parts of the Grand Canyon may still have snow.

Grand Canyon (lodge) hotels

When you visit the Grand Canyon, you can stay at various accommodations in and around the Grand Canyon. There are hotels (lodges) within the park and who wouldn’t want to experience the sunrise and sunset when the Grand Canyon is at its most beautiful.

For example in the Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins with a construction that is completely in style with the environment. This lodge also includes historic cabins located on the edge of the gorge. An overnight stay at the bottom of the canyon in the Phantom Ranch is also an unforgettable experience. If you plan to stay overnight in the park, book well in advance because the accommodations in the park are very popular and are often occupied. View the most booked Grand Canyon hotels here.

Grand Canyon Skywalk

One of the most spectacular attractions in the Grand Canyon is the Grand Canyon Skywalk. If you are adventurous and not afraid of heights, you should not miss a visit to this Skywalk. You walk across a U-shaped glass balcony floating above the canyon with a dizzying depth below you. Unfortunately, you are not allowed to take photos yourself, but you can have them taken (for a fee).

North Rim Grand Canyon

For those seeking the tranquility of nature, the rugged north face of the Grand Canyon is the place to be. However, the North Rim has limited access and is only open between May 15 and October 15. The facilities – as well as the number of activities – are limited. Enjoy the serenity of the North Rim and stay overnight in a comfortable room or cabin at the Grand Canyon Lodge, the North Rim’s only lodging facility.

Grand Canyon River

A visit to the Canyon is not complete without a boat trip on the Colorado River. You can book short, long or multi-day boat trips. It is also possible to take a boat trip on your own, but you do need a permit for that. The Colorado River with its many rapids is also an ideal place for rafting or canoeing.

Grand Canyon hike (trails)

If you really want to fully experience this perhaps most beautiful place on earth, then walking through the Grand Canyon is actually a ‘must’. There are also countless trails. Whether you want to walk for a few hours or make a trip of several days, it’s all possible. There is a walk for everyone. For the fanatics, for example, there is the difficult Hermit Trail, steep and rocky. You can also take walks in the Canyon accompanied by a guide. These are the so-called ‘Guided Walks’, where you walk with a park ranger. Not much of a walker? There are also plenty of beautiful car routes. Such as the Desert View Drive, a 40 kilometer route that takes you past six viewpoints.

South Rim Grand Canyon

The South Rim is the popular side of the Grand Canyon and also the starting point for many hikes. There are many viewpoints that you can reach on foot or by car. You can drive here with a (rental) car to the edge of the gorge. This southern side of the Canyon is open all year round. You can use the shuttle buses for free. There is also a special shuttle bus for hikers that takes you from the South Rim to the North Rim.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour

Helicopters are allowed to fly low over the Grand Canyon and spectacular views of the Canyon are guaranteed. Various scenic flights over the Canyon are possible, also with small planes. Curious which helicopter flights are the most popular? View all information about Grand Canyon helicopter flights here.

Grand Canyon tours

You can also discover the beauty of the Grand Canyon with a guided (day) tour. With an all-in-one tour you get a complete picture of the area. A guide shares the area’s history and facts as you explore the Canyon on foot. Then board a helicopter that will take you to the Colorado River where you will go deeper into the canyon on a river cruise surrounded by steep walls.

Grand Canyon visitor center

The gateway to the Grand Canyon is the National Geographic Visitor Center located in the South Rim. Grand Canyon Village is located here, consisting of the visitor center and the so-called ‘Market Plaza’, where you will find shops.

The Visitor Center is run by Park Rangers. You can find information about walks and other activities organized by the rangers here. You can also immediately become acquainted with the Grand Canyon because a film about the Canyon is shown in this visitor center, but a few steps away from the visitor center you can see the Canyon ‘live’. Mather Point offers a beautiful view of the gorge.