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The South Rim
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most popular spot to visit the Grand Canyon. The canyon is 277 miles long, 4 to 18 miles wide and over one mile deep. The Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World. Traveling along the bottom of the canyon is 277 miles of the Colorado River. The Colorado River is a total of 1450 miles long and begins in Colorado and ends in Mexico. The Canyon View Information Plaza is a good place to pick up maps and check out your first views of the canyon. One of the best ways for young travelers to see the Canyon is to take one of the many shuttles from the Plaza. Enjoy the beautiful views! Pick up a Junior Ranger Activity Book at the Visitor Center at Canyon View Information Plaza or Park Headquarters.
The Skywalk
The SkyWalk, is a u-shaped glass bridge that hangs about 70 feet over the rim of the canyon. Visitors walk out onto the glass bridge and can see 4000 feet straight down to the Colorado River. Don’t worry! Over a million pounds of steel, thick glass and five-foot tall glass railings keep you safe. The Skywalk is located at the West Rim of the Grand Canyon and is owned and operated by the Native American Hulapai Nation. The Hualapai people have lived in this area for many generations. Included with your ticket to the SkyWalk is a shuttle ride through the West Rim and a visit to Hualapai Ranch.
Yavapai Observation Station
The Yavapai Observation Station is located on the South Rim of the canyon. The purpose of this visitor center is to teach the history and geology of the Grand Canyon. The exhibits explain how the many rock layers and the carving of the Grand Canyon took place over time. There are 3-D models, photographs, artwork and videos to help understand the nature of the Grand Canyon. It is called an “Observation Station” for a reason! Yavapai has some of the best views of the gorge and Colorado River from its large viewing windows.
When there is not enough water in your body you can become dehydrated and tired. Dehydration happens when your body sweats from the heat and you don’t give it more water to replace the sweat. Do not wait until you feel thirsty to drink water. Carry a refillable water bottle and take small sips often. On many trails at the Grand Canyon, there are water stations and water springs where you can refill water containers. Other tips for staying healthy is to hike in the early morning, eat salty foods with your water, wear a sun hat, go slowly and stop when you feel you need a rest. Be prepared!
