What Every Visitor to the Grand Canyon Village Should Know

Over 4 million visitors visit the Grand Canyon each other, each of them expecting to see the most magnificent geological formation of the American West, and not one of them is ever disappointed. The Grand Canyon lies within the Grand Canyon National Park, and every care is taken to make sure that every one of these visitors enjoys their stay and remembers it as the best vacation of their lives.

Most of these visitors come to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. During the winter months, the North Rim, which is less populated and has fewer amenities, is closed to tourists. At the South Rim is the Grand Canyon Village. This is the hub of activity and amenities for the South Rim of the Park. Here you will find a number of the Park's lodging facilities, restaurants, post office, bank, general store, gift shops, laundry facilities, and medical services.

Restaurants are centered in the Grand Canyon Village area, and the general store contains a generous variety of food items and necessities.

At the Grand Canyon Village area, you can depart for guided hikes, raft trips, mule ride tours, and horseback riding tours of the Grand Canyon, however all reservations should be made before reaching the park. Be aware that weather conditions can cancel your tour plans. Weather is generally good during the period from June to mid-September, and both crowds and traffic conditions can be heavy during this time.

The South Rim is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Camping, lodging, and restaurants are available year round. Early reservations are strongly recommended during the summer months.

The North Rim has a short season, is harder to get to, is more secluded, and has fewer amenities. North Rim visitor center and facilities are only open from mid-May to mid-October.

The South Rim is at 6,000 feet, the North Rim at 8,000 feet. Those with heart or respiratory problems may have difficulty with physical activity. Walking at this elevation can be strenuous.

The Grand Canyon National Park has many hiking trails, some more strenuous than others. Be aware that you will need more water and more food when physically active. Avoid climbing steep trails at mid-day. The National Park Service strongly advises against attempting to hike from the rim to the river in one day.

Backcountry overnight camping and hiking requires a permit that can be obtained at the Backcountry Information Center.

For additional information or a free Insider's Guide to the Grand Canyon visit: www.FreeGrandCanyonGuide.com