Our Day at The Grand Canyon
- Cruisin' with Dana
- Feb 23, 2020
- 4 min read
Many of us have heard of the Grand Canyon. But to the select population that actually visit the natural wonder, I adamantly concur that pictures just do not do it justice. While recently in the northern Arizona area, we knew we couldn’t bypass making the trek to see “a big hole in the ground” – as Jason initially referred to it. 😊
We drove approximately three hours from Kingman, AZ to arrive at the small town of Tusayan – the Gateway to the Grand Canyon. During the peak tourist season, many visitors actually park in Tusayan and take the shuttle to the GC Visitor Center. Since we were visiting in February, we felt pretty confident we could find parking within the park.
We did stop at the Tusayan GC Visitor Center – different than the Park’s actual Visitor Center. After grabbing some quick lunch, we picked up a map of the Park. I waited in a short line to inquire of the staff where THEY would recommend someone visit if they had about a half day to explore. She immediately stated her favorite spot is the Desert View Watchtower. Going in blindly, we figured “done”!
From Tusayan, we drove up the highway a short distance to the Park entrance – noting the elevation.
Although we were technically visiting during the off-peak season, the line was still surprisingly longer than we thought it would be.
After presenting our National Park pass (thanks again Paula!) and ID, we began the caravan drive up highway 64 toward the Canyon. When it came time to turn off from 64 to Desert View Drive, we noticed hardly anyone following us toward the Watchtower. Then we realized our trip to the tower was going to be about 45 minutes long! We decided to venture forth anyway. In a short amount of time, the canyon briefly came into view on our left side. It literally took my breath away! Bolstered by these initial glimpses, we felt our plan was solid to begin viewing at the Watchtower and work our way back.
The Watchtower was built in 1932 and designed by Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter. She drew her inspiration for the design from Puebloan structures and intended it to blend into the natural look of the canyon. First looking at the tower, it appears to seemingly arise from the rocks and boulders found scattered around its base. Unassuming and incredibly authentic looking.
We took a few moments to appreciate the view from the ground, then made our way into the tower. The main floor is reserved for a small gift shop as well as spaces for cultural exhibitions. There was a Native American gentleman making silver jewelry by hand!
Of course, we were there to experience the views from the top, so we quickly began the trek up the stairs. Surprisingly, there appeared to be quite a bit of foot traffic up and down each set of stairs separating the floors. We couldn’t imagine what that traffic may look like during the peak season!
We didn’t spend a lot of time on the first floor. It was tastefully decorated with authentic Hopi artwork. But we were still chomping at the bit to get to the top. Well, arriving next in the Kiva Room slowed our roll a bit. This was the first place in which we had a peek out of the windows and overlooking the canyon. Astounding!
The floors following contained many images of interesting pictographs. We took the opportunity to venture out to the observation deck and were amazed by the views of the Colorado River toward the north – and reminded ourselves that water and time were all that was needed to create this natural wonder.
Finally, on the top floor, we experienced the view that words/videos/pictures simply canNOT describe. Enjoy the video below for a peek inside the Watchtower!
After stopping at the small market onsite for a souvenir, we hopped back into the truck with plans to stop at the four overlook points between the tower and the Visitor Center.
First was Navajo Point. From here, we experienced the views from a more precarious vantage point than safely tucked into a tower! While always aware of footing, Navajo Point provided us a more comprehensive view of the Colorado River’s path through the canyon. What was interesting to us is the straight horizon line at the top of the canyon – both the north and the south rims. We hadn’t realized the canyon sits among numerous plateaus! Just around the corner and up the road were Lipan and Moran Points. We encountered few other visitors at these sites while reconnecting to nature.
From there, we moved on to Grand View Point. I’m not sure why that particular point was named “Grand View” but I surmise that it is because the view expands and provides a more panoramic sight of the canyon. One can see miles out from west to east. Truly breathtaking!
At one point, I “found” my husband out on a narrow overlook. His bravery calmed me enough to join him for the view. And it was totally worth it!
To wrap up our visit, we ventured next to the Visitor Center to observe Mather Point. Once at the Center, it became apparent that THIS was where many visitors gravitate to. The views did not disappoint at all. However, after experiencing the previous points in virtual silence and with few others, we found ourselves less likely to linger.
Overall, our day trip to the Grand Canyon was glorious, humbling, and awe-inspiring. We are already planning our return visit for next year!!
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