Grand Canyon

The first national park I ever visited—the Grand Canyon—presented itself to me on a cloudy day when I was thirteen. The weather didn't cooperate and I was too young to truly appreciate the splendor before me, but I always knew one day I would go back. In 2017 I returned with three friends and got to experience the magic this incredible natural marvel has to offer. I also got to visit in 2024 with my husband, hiking down the farthest I’ve ever reached in the canyon on the South Kaibab Trail. And please remember: if you don't stay for sunset, have you really even seen the Grand Canyon at all?

2017 visit:

2024 visit:

Quick Facts:

  • Visited: 2003, 2017, 2024

  • National Park established: 1919

  • Location: Arizona

  • Size: 1,904 square miles

Learn More:

Highlights & Hikes:

Hikes:

  • Bright Angel Trail

  • Grandview Trail

  • Rim Trail

  • South Kaibab Trail to Skeleton Point

Highlights:

  • Grandview Point - Epic views

  • Mather Point - Great sunset spot

  • Navajo Point - Desert View Watchtower