America has a rich and diverse natural wonders. There are awe inspiring flora fauna and wildlife that leave nature lovers with many magical moments. In US the National Park Service has been managing and safeguarding natural parks since 1916. What is more - in the process of natural conservation and wildlife preservation they also have opportunity to save local heritage and celebrate its history. There are hundreds of national natural landmarks, historic landmarks - structures, heritage sites and national parks that are being cared for in order to be saved. One of these is the Grand Canyon.
Grand Canyon National Park has lovely landscapes. The Canyon here is 446 km long, 29 km wide and 1.6 km deep. Watching the sunrise or sunset here is an amazing experience. Information relating to the sunset and sunrise times and moon phases are available before hand. This enables visitors to plan their trips accordingly. There are over 1700 species of vascular plants growing here in addition to 160+ types of fungi and moss. Every year some 5 million visitors appreciate the beauty of this Canyon. Majority of them use the free shuttle buses for exploration.
Most of the nature lovers from foreign lands need a tourist visa to travel to any part of America including its natural parks. Citizens of select countries who fall under the Visa Waiver program are exceptions to this rule. These visitors from these countries have to apply for ESTA visa, check the authorization status and then travel.
The size of the national park amazes and overwhelms visitors simultaneously. These who wish to absorb its grandeur can opt for a hiking trip here. The extreme temperatures, isolated environs and scarcity of water are key pointers towards the nature of backpacking trips in this park. It presents itself as an endurance test at both physical and mental levels.
The South Rim of the Canyon is open all around the year. Kaibab Rim Shuttle Bus is a scenic way to discover the beauty of the area. It takes one to the Yaki Point and South Kaibab Trailhead. Then there is the Scenic Hermit Road Shuttle Route which takes another spectacular ride along the Hermit Road. For some stunning views of the natural wonder visitors usually flock to the Yavapai Observation Station. The exhibits here include Colorado Plateau and the carving of Grand Canyon. Desert View Point is another famous vintage point it is close to the eastern edge.
Tusayan Museum offers insight into the Pueblo Indian life from 800 years ago. The North Rim of the Canyon stays closed for winters due to snow. In summers lodging and camping options are available here. The highest point here is the Point Imperial, known for providing dramatic views of the park. Alternatively people can be enjoying sunset and sunrise from the Cape Royal. Toroweap Overlook at 3000 vertical feet is not a cakewalk to get to but worth the effort to say the least.