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Grand Canyon National Park, also known as the "Grand Canyon of the Colorado," is located in northern Arizona and covers 1,904 square miles. Established in 1919, it stretches 350 kilometers and has an average depth of 1,600 meters. The canyon's summit is 6 to 30 kilometers wide, tapering into a V-shape. The banks are higher in the north and lower in the south, with the maximum depth exceeding 1,500 meters. The valley floor is less than 1,000 meters wide, and its narrowest point is only 120 meters. The Colorado River flows through the valley floor.
The Grand Canyon is so vast that even from the best viewpoints, only a small portion can be seen. No one has ever seen its entirety. The canyon's magnificence lies not only in its myriad peaks and rocks, and in its escarpmental pillars, but also in its ever-changing colors. Due to the varying nature of the rocks and minerals found in the canyon walls, sunlight reveals a variety of colors. Iron ore, for example, appears vibrant, while other oxides exhibit a variety of dull hues, and quartz appears white. These vibrant reds, dark blacks, iron-grays, and deep reds transform the canyon walls into a vast, dazzling palette of colors, a breathtaking spectacle. Even more remarkable, the colors of the canyon walls change with the weather.
Subtropical continental arid and semi-arid climate;
Suitable for all seasons
$12/car
All day
Grand Canyon National Park, established in 1919, preserves one of the world's most impressive natural landscapes, showcasing 6 million years of geological history along the Colorado River.
Located in northern Arizona. Accessible via car, shuttle buses within the park, or flights to nearby airports (Flagstaff or Las Vegas) followed by car rental or tour buses.
The South Rim is open year-round; the North Rim is seasonal (May–October). Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Entrance fee: $35 per vehicle, $30 per motorcycle, or $20 per individual (on foot/bike). Passes can be purchased online or at park entrances.
Not required for general entry, but reservations are recommended for popular activities like helicopter tours, rafting trips, and camping, typically weeks to months in advance.
2–3 days for South Rim highlights; 4–7 days if including hikes into the canyon, North Rim, or rafting excursions.
Yes, ranger-led tours, private guided tours, and audio guides are available, mainly in English; some guided tours offer other languages.
Start at Grand Canyon Visitor Center, follow shuttle stops along Hermit Road for key viewpoints, hike selected trails, and visit Desert View for sunset. North Rim is optional depending on season.
Night sky programs and stargazing events are offered. Some guided tours run at dawn or dusk, but general night access is limited.
South Rim is busiest in summer; least crowded during winter weekdays. North Rim is less crowded due to seasonal access.
Visitor centers, restrooms, restaurants, snack bars, lodges, water refill stations, and gift shops are available at major points and villages.
Many viewpoints and trails are wheelchair accessible; shuttles and paved paths are available. Some trails into the canyon are strenuous and not recommended for elderly or children without preparation.
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted at park facilities; cash is optional for small vendors.
Yes, many lodges and restaurants provide vegetarian and vegan options; halal options may require prior inquiry.
Yes; typical souvenirs include T-shirts, mugs, postcards, Native American crafts, and canyon-themed memorabilia.
