Neither words nor pictures do Grand Canyon National Park justice—it's truly a place you have to see to believe. Officially named a national park in 1919, the Grand Canyon is one of the top-visited parks in the country with more than 5 million visitors per year. Whether you're just soaking up the sweeping views from the top or hiking into the depths of the canyon, this is one of the most iconic parks in the U.S. for a reason.
17708 Coker Road, Shawnee, OK, United States
Some tips for visiting the Grand Canyon:
• A common mistake when visiting the Grand Canyon is to just take some pictures at one overlook and then call it a day. Take the time to visit a few scenic viewpoints to fully appreciate it, book a tour, or, better yet, take a hike. The South Kaibab, Rim, and Grandview trails all offer short routes and stunning views.
• The Grand Canyon has excellent public transportation and shuttle services, which can keep you from getting stuck in traffic and stressing about parking.
• Plan ahead. The park is a popular destination all year round. Make reservations and book tours as far in advance as possible. Cancellations do happen, though, so if you prefer to fly by the seat of your pants, keep in mind that the best time to check for last-minute openings is about two days in advance.
The best time to visit the Grand Canyon: Spring and summer are the most busy times to visit the Grand Canyon, and summer means often-intense heat and afternoon thunderstorms. The North Rim closes in the winter, and it does occasionally snow here, but crowds thin out a bit. Fall is also a great time to visit, when the temperatures start to cool off, even though it might still be crowded.