This is indeed the grandest canyon on earth. There are a couple that are deeper but nothing catches this one for sheer majesty and awe. 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and more than a mile deep, with layered colorful rock revealing millions of years of geological history.
There are two visitor areas – north rim and south rim. The north rim gets a fraction of visitors of the south, and it takes a LONG time to drive between them as there are no roads through the canyon – most people choose one or the other rim for a visit
Lodging
The only option is the Grand Canyon Lodge. Accommodations are in cabins but the public spaces are, well, grand.
Hikes
Be sure and take the short 1/2 miles stroll out to bright Angel Point. The Cliff Brings train down the Cape Royal Road offers a chance to drop below the rim and is a scenic walk. We also suggest the Cape Royal trail past Angel’s Window
To Actually go down into the main canyon the north Kaibab trail is the only one that leads down to the Colorado River 6000 feet and 14 miles away. l Do not attempt this as a day hike. Generally the park service suggests not going past Roaring Springs as a day hike
Great overview of best hikes in the Grand Canyon (south and north)
Drives
Be sure and take the scenic Cape Royal road and stop at Point Imperial for amazing views on the way to Cape Royal.
One-hour rides along the rim, half-day rides along the rim, and trips down into Grand Canyon are usually available. Register at the Canyon Trail Rides desk in the lodge lobby, 7 am–5 pm, or call 435-679-8665.