GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
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The grand canyon is about 450 km long between Lake Powell and Lake Mead, its average depth is 1 300 m
With a surface of about 500 000 ha, the dimensions of the Grand Canyon are gigantic. It is about 450 km long between Lake Powell and Lake Mead, its average depth is 1,300 m (with a maximum of over 2,000 m) and its width varies from 5.5 to 30 km.
The Grand Canyon has been sculpted by the power of the Colorado River, violently rolling a greenish and muddy water as if its only desire was to tear away the 700 m of rock that still separate it from the sea level. This force of nature has its source in the Rocky Mountains and flows into the Gulf of California after having traveled more than 2,300 km. Its average flow is 650m3/s. However, during periods of high water, it can increase significantly. Before the construction of the dams, it could reach 2 300m3/s! A hundred rapids are located at the bottom of the canyon.
This grandiose and superb fault is bordered by two roughly parallel plateaus. While North Rim and South Rim are only a few kilometers apart as the crow flies, the distance is 346 km by road. The two are also distinctly different in climate, vegetation and wildlife. The northern shore, 300 m higher, is also wilder. The park's approximately 5 million visitors per year are more attracted to the South Rim, which is more developed for tourism.
French language guides to the South Rim and North Rim are available on the park's website, along with practical information.
Further information
Opening time and information on GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
South Rim is open year round. North Rim from mid-May to mid-October. 35 US$ (vehicle), 30 US$ (motorcycle), 20 US$ (pedestrian).
Would honestly skip the visitor center and focus on hikes and trails the next time we come. It’s cool and is a good experience, but the views along desert drive were far superior in our opinion. And the watch tower is a must. That being said, we didn’t take a bus to Hermits Roost, so going to reserve ultimate preference till we can see that.
A definite must see for everyone. Would recommend a stroller or pack for toddlers.
Following a park ranger's recommendation, we started our exploration at Desert View Watchtower. This turned out to be a fantastic tip, as it was noticeably less crowded than other viewpoints. Even with fewer crowds, the sheer scale and majesty of the canyon are difficult to grasp in photos. It's a humbling experience to stand there and try to comprehend the vastness that stretches out before you.