I reached the rim just as the sun peaked over the horizon. I’m not a morning person, but this was more than worth it.
On this page, you’ll find my first visit to the Grand Canyon. You can also read my second visit to the Grand Canyon in December 2006, and my visit to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in 2007. Oh, and another visit in 2014.
At the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, you’re well over a mile above sea level (6,837 feet, to be exact). Even in springtime, the mornings can be quite chilly, and windy. (In other words, plan on buying a souvenir sweatshirt.)
The sun is still rising, casting ever-changing shadows through the canyon.
The park provides a free shuttle service from the main visitor’s area at the south rim, out to Hermit’s Rest. Buses won’t stop for you along the road, so be prepared to walk the distance between designated bus stops.
There’s no shortage of weathered trees along the rim, to help you frame up some incredible shots.
Your bus driver will tell you the distance between stops. Once you get off the bus, you can walk on trails that take you right to the edge of the rim, with no fences in between you and the depths.
Here’s a good look at a stretch of trail, that runs right along the canyon rim. You’d expect the park to be bustling with tourists, but if you hit the trail early enough, there’s a good chance you’ll be all alone out here.
Note: This trip was first published in 2004.
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