Arizona - Grand Canyon

One of the natural wonders of the world is a staggering 277 miles long. At its deepest, it is about a mile from the rim to the Colorado River below and it is as much as 18 miles wide in some spots. Park encompasses 1,904 sq. miles and visibility on a good day can reach up to 100 miles.

The Desert Archaic people lived within the canyon 3,000 to 4,000 years ago. Around 1,000 B.C., the Anasazi Indians have inhabited the area. Ruins of adobe houses in the area show that Pueblo Indians also lived there, probably as early as the 1200s.

The first white men to discover the canyon were Spaniards from Francisco Vasquez de Coronado's expedition in 1540. In 1919 Grand Canyon received National Park status.

Visitors can climb to the top and enjoy the spectacular view of the Colorado River below. Hiking in the Grand Canyon can be very strenuous so many people opt to ride the famous mules down to the bottom. A trip by mule to the bottom of the canyon takes about five and a half hours.

Once at the bottom of the canyon, Colorado River makes for an excellent river rafting adventure with both exciting whitewater and water rafting available. For those who make the trek to the bottom of the canyon, an overnight stay at the rustic Phantom Ranch is an option. The ranch, which was built in 1922, is the only lodging facility located below the rim of the canyon.

The Grand Canyon Railway – a vintage train that runs from Williams, Arizona to Grand Canyon National Park. The Grand Canyon Railway made its first journey to the Grand Canyon in 1901 and the same rail line is used today.

Visitors can also venture to the Grand Canyon West, which is managed by the Hualapai Tribe. The newest attraction at the Grand Canyon West is the breathtaking Skywalk a glass bridge suspended 4,000 feet above the Colorado River, allowing visitors to actually walk out over the canyon and experience views unlike any other.

Spirit Mountain

Sacred grounds of the Yuman Indian people (Mohave, Hualapai, Yavapai, Havasupai, Quechan, Pai pai, Maricopa). Highest peak in Newberry Mountain range at 5,639 ft, Spirit Mountain, has played a prominent role in the religious and mythological beliefs of these people. It is believed to be the spiritual birthplace of the tribes. These Native Americans continue to use this area in their tribal ceremonies and cultural traditions. Named as a Traditional Cultural Property, it is also listed on the National Register of Historical Places. Please keep in mind the sacred significance of this beautiful area when visiting, by only taking photographs and not touching or defacing the petroglyphs.