I’ll admit I avoided visiting the Grand Canyon on a number of occasions.
Something so big and so constantly revered as an iconic landscape was sure to disappoint, right? I finally gave in on a road trip from Phoenix this year and will admit the landscape was colourful, imposing and impressive all at once. The views were great to make this my third favourite National Park in the US.
However, what made my Grand Canyon trip most enjoyable was visiting at the end of April. Why? No crowds! Even the staff working there said this was the best time of year to go. The shuttle bus rides I took were often empty, the trails I hiked were quiet, even the walkway along the south rim Crater seemed deserted at times.
This couple were two of only a handful of people I came across one morning. I can’t imagine visiting during the mid-summer crowds – I know I wouldn’t have enjoyed it nearly as much.
Like the end of the world.
Victor recently posted..Underwater Life of Maldives. Vilamendhoo: Corals
I did that when I was a kid – about 17 I think. My mom actually crawled out on the rock to drag me to safety. I remember my feet dangling over the edge and feeling the incredible expanse of the canyon – definitely should be a bucket list item for everyone!
Leslyn Kantner recently posted..My Virtual Pin Map – You make it Social!
Definitely Leslyn…the Grand Canyon is one wonder that lives up to the hype!
Wow, what an amazing picture!
End of April…great tip! This is a spot that would not nearly be as amazing with hoards of people!
Tash recently posted..Changing Colours of an Uluru Sunrise
Sounds great and love the picture!
Thanks Tom!
An amazing place and a great picture!
Raul (@ilivetotravel) recently posted..Curacao Photo Essay: Art, Architecture and Some Very Dark Skies
Thanks Raul…!
Terrific shot Red! Out of interest, what are your favourite two parks in US then?
Hey Kieran….of the parks I’ve visited, my top two are Yellowstone and Bryce Canyon. Hard to beat Yellowstone for pure nature and wildlife. (Although I haven’t been up to Alaska yet!)