Ranger Rick: Visit to the Grand Canyon

Kids often like to show off their scars as a badge of honor. Well, Earth, puts one of its own scars on display that millions traverse to by bus, helicopter, plane or their own vehicle in order to cross it off their bucket list.

The Grand Canyon is a 277-mile long gash across the planet’s surface that captivates tourists, serves as standing a history and geology lesson and features some of the most sought after recreation destinations in the world.

The colorful patterns of rock that make up the Canyon’s scenic landscape were formed from 18 layers of rock, each with their own place in history over the last 17 million years. The Colorado River flows through the base of the canyon and is largely responsible for its continued erosion.

History lessons aside, the depth (more than a mile) makes for an adventurous decent to the base and is accessible by foot for the brave and well-conditioned or, in an ode to the 19th century, on the back of a mule. While an estimated five million people visit the canyon each year, considerably less reach the bottom.

Part of the allure of reaching the bottom is for the whitewater rafting. These expeditions aren’t your run of the mill one-day jaunt down a small stretch of river, but often last five to six days and can extend well beyond with a range of easy flowing water to rapids rated as a 10, the most difficult rapids still considered runnable.

But the ultimate adventure doesn’t just lie at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. At the South Rim of the canyon awaits Skywalk, where you can traverse across a glass-bottom bridge nearly 5,000 feet above the canyon’s floor.

The beauty of the canyon also lends itself to some of the most picturesque scenes you could ever find. No matter what side of it you find yourself you will be sure to come home with photos worthy of computer wallpaper or a calendar.

Sure you came to Las Vegas to experience everything it has to offer, but how often are you a few hours away from one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and one step closer to fulfilling your bucket list?

Interested in booking a trip to the Grand Canyon?  Visit Galavantier.com where an array of packages including Pink Jeep Tours and Adventure Photo Tours await.