Elves Chasm

If you've never heard of Elves Chasm, then you're in for a real treat. This amazing natural wonder is considered one of the Grand Canyon's best-kept secrets. This rock formation is the oldest in the Grand Canyon, dating to over 1.8 billion years ago. There's a plethora of diverse plant and wildlife. Elves Chasm is seriously one of the Colorado River's most beautiful spots. Accessing the chasm is an adventure in and of itself. It's located on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. To start your journey, there's a trailhead by the Havasupai Indian Reservation, from there you'd likely head to the Aztec Amphitheater (taking in in the breathtaking view of the Canyon). Then, it's a hike to a 20ft drop that will take you to the Inner Canyon. This trip spans several days, but is truly a journey of a lifetime. NOTE: Canyon weather varies, so be sure to plan (and pack) accordingly.  Then you raft down the Colorado  (keep in mind you need to book a trip like this through an experienced guide who will help you get the necessary permits). And the grotto is about 1/4 mile off the river. A bit of geological history on the age of Elves Chasm: "Nearly two billion years of the Earth's geological history has been exposed as the Colorado River and its tributaries cut their channels through layer after layer of rock while the Colorado Plateau was uplifted. While the specific geologic processes and timing that formed the Grand Canyon are the subject of debate by geologists, recent evidence suggests the Colorado River established its course through the canyon at least 17 million years ago. Since that time, the Colorado River continued to erode and form the canyon to its present-day configuration." The Sierra Club offers a great tour package. Check it out here: http://www.sierraclub.org/outings/national/brochure/12047a.aspx When adding Elves Chasm to your trip, please add the Havasu Trailhead instead, as Elves Chasm will not be routed due to its remote location.