3.1 Half Day Trip Grand Canyon South

A powerful and inspiring landscape, Grand Canyon overwhelms our senses through its immense size. On December 1, the canyons filled with clouds, providing a rare sight seen by very few in a rare occurrence known as inversion: warm air on the upper parts of the cannon trap cold air and fog on the lower parts. Unique combinations of geologic color and erosional forms decorate a canyon that is 277 river miles (446km) long, up to 18 miles (29km) wide, and a mile (1.6km) deep. Grand Canyon National Park, a World Heritage Site, encompasses 1,218,375 acres and lies on the Colorado Plateau in northwestern Arizona. The land is semi-arid and consists of raised plateaus and structural basins typical of the southwestern United States. Drainage systems have cut deeply through the rock, forming numerous steep-walled canyons. Forests are found at higher elevations while the lower elevations are comprised of a series of desert basins. Well known for its geologic significance, the Grand Canyon is one of the most studied geologic landscapes in the world. It offers an excellent record of three of the four eras of geological time, a rich and diverse fossil record, a vast array of geologic features and rock types, and numerous caves containing extensive and significant geological, paleontological, archeological and biological resources. It is considered one of the finest examples of arid-land erosion in the world. The Canyon, incised by the Colorado River, is immense, averaging 4,000 feet deep for its entire 277 miles. It is 6,000 feet deep at its deepest point and 18 miles at its widest. However, the significance of Grand Canyon is not limited to its geology. The Park contains several major ecosystems. Its great biological diversity can be attributed to the presence of five of the seven life zones and three of the four desert types in North America. The five life zones represented are the Lower Sonoran, Upper Sonoran, Transition, Canadian, and Hudsonian. This is equivalent to traveling from Mexico to Canada. The Park also serves as an ecological refuge, with relatively undisturbed remnants of dwindling ecosystems (such as boreal forest and desert riparian communities). It is home to numerous rare, endemic (found only at Grand Canyon), and specially protected (threatened or endangered) plant and animal species.

“over 5 million visitors a year” The South Rim is the most accessible part of the park and is open all year, averaging 7000 feet/ 2134 m above sea level. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon attracts over 5 million visitors each year and by far is the most visited side of the Canyon. That's because it is the most accessible and provides the most amenities. As with all sides of the Canyon, the South Rim features astounding views of what took Mother Nature millions and millions of years to create. That why it has earned the distinction as one of the world's Seven Wonders. The U.S. Forest Service operates Ten-X Campground 2 miles/3 km south of Tusayan, early May through September. No hook-ups or showers; pit toilets and cold water faucets are located throughout the campground. Group sites and 15 of their 70 family sites may be reserved through Recreation.gov, and the fee is $10 per night for one vehicle.

CANYON VILLAGE Heads up! Due to the spread of COVID-19, some points of interest may be closed or have restrictions. Please stay safe and call ahead to get the latest information.

“south rim of Grand Canyon” Located at the South Rim entrance of the Grand Canyon, the Visitor Center provides news, travel information about Grand Canyon attractions, hotels, a variety of selected Grand Canyon tours and Park passes. Visitors can take part in interactive exhibits to learn about the Grand Canyon, watch our famous IMAX® movie and talk to local area representatives. Inside the center guests can also enjoy a meal at our Explorer’s Café dining area which includes Pizza Hut®, fresh deli sandwiches and other items or take their time to browse through our National Geographic® branded merchandise store. he IMAX Experience at the Grand CanyonGrand Canyon: The Hidden Secrets” dramatizes the adventure and discovery of the National Park, with thundering sound and breathtaking footage giving visitors an exciting glimpse of what lies beyond the entrance. The IMAX® Theater is one of the first of its kind ever built, and is designed to accommodate large groups in a comfortable, temperature controlled environment. The National Geographic® Visitor Center is the number one destination for large tour groups or vacationing families to stop at before going further into the Grand Canyon. Visitors can browse interactive exhibits, choose from many guided tours, watch our famous IMAX® movie or even dine in our Explorer’s Café. With a large selection of food and beverage choices, the Explorer’s Café is a pleasant dining experience for every hungry guest.