May 24, 2008

Spread over an area of 446 kms and with varying widths ranging from 6.5 kms to 24 kms, the Grand Canyon is truly one of the natural wonders of the world. Annually, over five million visitors are drawn to this World Heritage site which is more than six million years old. A majority of the visitors to the Grand Canyon choose to see the view from the South Rim which is open all through the year and is the most accessible. Perched on the edge and peering over, you can see chasms and buttes standing tall and silent as they have over the centuries. These mute witnesses to history and the evolution of mankind are an awe-inspiring sight indeed.

The South Rim is situated about 100 kms north of Flagstaff in the state of Arizona and traveling by road is the method of choice of most visitors to the Grand Canyon. Irrespective of whether this is the first time you are setting your eyes upon this spectacular vista or the ‘nth’ time, you cannot fail to be impressed by the magnificence of this huge chasm. Looking down at the canyon from one of the many viewpoints it is easy to be overwhelmed by the surprising silence that permeates the region, and the majestic land formations that have withstood the travails of the elements over centuries. They instill humility in you reminding you of your place in this vast universe.

Volcanic rocks, Kaibab limestone, and sandstone, give the canyon its different hues. The Colorado River snakes across the bottom of the canyon looking no more than a trickle from thousands of feet high above. River trips and white water rafting sojourns are available for those who have the time and energy to make it down the canyon. However, none of these trips are one-day and have to be booked well in advance. Camping within the park is allowed but you have to obtain the permits early on.

As we made our way along the scenic drive, stopping often to admire and capture on camera the beauty of the land, we came across many enthusiastic hikers. They made their way up and down the winding trails and rocky terrain with deceptive ease. Despite having worn sturdy shoes and appropriate hiking attire, the little we explored of a couple of trails made it clear that these are not for the faint-hearted. Be sure to take lots of drinking water, a first aid kit and tackle only one trail at a time.  

The arid climate of this canyon has played a significant role in helping preserve numerous prehistoric fossils deep within the many caves found in the region. Grand Canyon village located within the park is now a landmark of historic interest as is the watch tower situated at Desert View Point on the scenic drive along the South Rim. This tower dates back to 1933 and has a gift shop and rest area located nearby.

The North Rim of the canyon is a thousand feet higher than the South Rim and is just at a distance of 16 kms as the crow flies. However, a trip by car would mean driving in excess of 300 kms from the South Rim. Also, the North Rim is closed to visitors in winter due to heavy snowfall making the road impassable. The newest addition to the Grand Canyon national park is the glass-bottomed skywalk which has been built literally over air. For a fee, you get to walk on two-inch thick glass about 70 feet out from the West Rim and at a height of about 4000 ft. Those who have been on it assure of an ethereal experience—something I intend to fully savor on my next visit to that part of the world.