Bucket List Destination – The Grand Canyon

So, you’ve got the Grand Canyon on your bucket list, huh? It was a must-do for my Dad’s buddy too, and what a journey it turned out to be.

We set off from Indiana, hopping on a train headed straight for the Grand Canyon. Amtrak will take you to Flagstaff but from there you will need a car or to book a tour to get to the Grand Canyon. We were originally going to stay in an AirBnb near Williams, but on a whim, I called the park and we snagged a last-minute spot at the Yavapai Lodge right in the heart of the park. Basic digs, but it had all the essentials and was a stone’s throw from the Visitors Center, plus some neat little shops and eateries. Oh, and it was a short stroll away from Mather Point, one of those jaw-dropping overlooks at the South Rim.

Now, the Grand Canyon? It’s not just a pretty face, my friend. This place is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. They say the Colorado River started carving this wonder out over five million years ago, laying bare nearly two billion years of Earth’s geological story.

Picture this: 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and in some spots, a mile deep! It’s mind-boggling, really.

Now, let’s break it down a bit. The Grand Canyon has three main sections: North Rim, South Rim, and Grand Canyon West. North and South Rim? That’s where you’ll find the national park, while Grand Canyon West sits on Native American reservation land.

Alright, let’s talk South Rim. It’s like the poster child for the park, always buzzing with visitors. Summers get packed, so consider swinging by during quieter times. Oh, and trust me, whether you’re up at the crack of dawn or not, catching a sunrise here? Pure magic. Plus, you’ll dodge some of the crowds at the viewpoints.

Since way back in 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway’s been chugging folks from Williams, AZ, straight to the South Rim. In summer, there’s even a shuttle service from the Visitors Center.

Now, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, there’s mule rides down to the canyon floor or rafting trips along the Colorado River. And don’t even get me started on the hiking and biking trails!

Oh, and when it comes to staying, there are historic lodges in the park itself or plenty of hotels and campgrounds in Williams and Tusayan that make exploring the South Rim a breeze.

Alright, onto the North Rim. It’s only open from May to October, so plan accordingly. But trust me, it’s worth it. There’s just one campground and the Grand Canyon Lodge up there, but the views? Unreal. Take a spin along the North Rim Scenic Drive for some epic vistas.

And finally, Grand Canyon West. It’s a hop, skip, and a jump from Las Vegas and boy, does it deliver on the views. Plus, there’s the Skywalk, this glass bridge that’ll make your heart skip a beat. Guano Point’s another highlight, offering killer views and a peek into history with remnants of an old tram and a guano mine.

Eagle Point has Native American village tours, giving you a taste of the area’s rich heritage. And if you’re craving that Wild West vibe, swing by Hualapai Ranch for some cowboy-style fun.

Whatever season you come and whatever side you choose to visit, you won’t be disappointed.