When Theodore Roosevelt visited the Grand Canyon in 1903, he stated, “Leave it as it is. You cannot improve on it. The ages have been at work on it, and man can only mar it. What you can do is keep it for your children, your children’s children…as one great sight which every American should see.” He later used the Antiquities Act to declare the Grand Canyon a national monument in 1908 and in 1919, the Grand Canyon National Park was declared by Congress. Decades late, the Grand Canyon is still one of America’s most popular National Parks drawing over 6 million guests per year. When visiting the Grand Canyon National Park, be sure your trip agenda includes the following activities and attractions:
- A walk on the Grand Canyon Skywalk where you can get a bird’s eye view of the Canyon floor.
- Lipan Point - Located at the South Rim, here you will get one of the best views of the Canyon, especially if you wish to watch the sunset. Other phenomenal overlooks are Pima, Mohave, Hopi, Moran, and Desert View.
- Hermits Rest - Built in 1913, this building is touted as the Canyon’s best historic site.
- Waterfalls of Havasu Creek - Take the 10 mile hike or mule ride through Havasu Canyon to the impressive cascades. Along the way you will see Travertine dams, towering red rock walls and unique rock formations.
- Museum of Northern Arizona - located in Flagstaff, here you will learn about the artwork of the Native Americans. The displays showcase artifacts (over 5,000) and explore the history, science and cultures of Colorado Plateau. This is one of the only museums of its kind in North America.
- Take a walk between Yavapai and Mather Points where you will find beautiful scenery and a relatively easy hike. Other great hikes are along the Plateau Point Trail and the Bright Angel Trail.
- Buckney O’Neill Cabin - As the second oldest surviving structure in the Grand Canyon, the Cabin was used as the focal point for the Bright Angel Lodge and is one of the most elegant guest suites in the Park.