Wednesday, June 3, 2009

The Grand Canyon

It's been a while since I've been to the Canyon, but it isn't a trip I'll ever forget. What an amazing place. I've often heard that, "A picture is worth a thousand words." Well that may be true, but pictures don't do justice to the Grand Canyon. There is no possible way you can get a sense of the true grandeur of the Grand Canyon from a two dimensional picture. It just isn’t possible. I’ve also flown over the Canyon several times in commercial airliners, and again, it just isn’t possible to feel the true perspective of its magnificence.

I’ve been to both rims of the Canyon, south and north, and have my own preference. The south has more facilities and gets much more attention because it is easier to get to. It is also accessible year round, unlike the North Rim, which is closed for about half the year. The South Rim is accessible by two different routes, one from the east and one from the south. The southern route has several different travel alternatives. If you are driving, you can travel the scenic highway 180/64 which takes you directly to the Park Headquarters. Another viable alternative is to fly into the Grand Canyon National Park Airport and take a shuttle into the Park. This is a good, relaxing way to make the journey, but only recommended if you plan on spending several nights at the Canyon, which can be both relaxing and invigorating. The third alternative is to travel by rail to the Park. A railroad runs right to the park and drops you off not far short of the Park Headquarters. This can be utilized for a day trip or if you’re going to stay longer. A trip by rail is a beautiful, relaxing trip along a scenic route into the Park and costs around $70.00 US. I highly recommend it as a wonderful way to go to the Park.