Discover the Grand Canyon Without Zika

The Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world. Located in Arizona, the Grand Canyon is a 277 mile long, 18 mile wide, and 1 mile deep ravine carved out of the Colorado Plateau. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States, drawing millions of visitors each year. Unfortunately, the Grand Canyon is also home to the Zika virus, making it dangerous for visitors to explore the area. To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, we have compiled this guide so that you can discover the Grand Canyon without the risk of Zika.

Pack for the Weather

The Grand Canyon is located in the high desert of northern Arizona, so the weather can vary greatly depending on the time of year. In the summer months, temperatures can easily reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing. It’s important to pack clothes and supplies that are appropriate for the weather, as well as plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Additionally, the Grand Canyon is a very dry area, so it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Explore the Trails

The Grand Canyon offers a variety of trails for visitors to explore. The South Rim is the most popular, and offers a wide variety of easy to strenuous trails. The most popular trails include the Bright Angel Trail, which is a 9.5 mile round-trip hike to the Colorado River, the South Kaibab Trail, which is a 7.2 mile round-trip hike to the Colorado River, and the Rim Trail, which is a 13 mile paved trail that runs along the South Rim with plenty of stunning views. All of these trails are free to hike and offer a variety of experiences, from breathtaking views to intense physical challenges.

Visit the Lookouts

The Grand Canyon is full of stunning views, and the best way to experience them is by visiting the various lookouts throughout the park. There are numerous overlooks located along the South Rim, including Yavapai Point, Moran Point, and Pima Point. These lookouts offer stunning views of the canyon and are perfect for photography. Additionally, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is home to the Cape Royal and Point Imperial lookouts, which offer incredible views of the canyon from the opposite side.

Visit the Museums

The Grand Canyon is home to several museums, which provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history and geology of the area. The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is the largest and most popular museum, and offers a variety of exhibits and interactive displays about the canyon’s history, geology, and wildlife. Additionally, the Desert View Watchtower and the Yavapai Museum of Geology are also worth a visit, as they offer a unique glimpse into the Grand Canyon’s past.

Take a Tour

The Grand Canyon is an incredibly large area, and it can be difficult to explore on foot. Fortunately, there are a variety of tours available that offer the perfect way to experience the canyon. Helicopter tours offer a breathtaking view of the canyon from above, while rafting tours offer a unique perspective of the canyon from the Colorado River. Additionally, there are a variety of guided tours available, which are an ideal way to explore the canyon in a safe and guided environment.

Visit the Lodges

The Grand Canyon is a great place to spend a few days, and there are plenty of lodges and hotels located in the area. The Grand Canyon Lodges offer a variety of accommodation options, from cabins and hotel rooms to camping sites. These lodges are all located within the national park, so you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views of the canyon without leaving your room. Additionally, the lodges offer a variety of amenities, such as restaurants, gift shops, and activities.

See the Wildlife

The Grand Canyon is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, coyotes, and mountain lions. The best way to see the wildlife is to take a guided tour, or to simply take a hike and keep your eyes open. Additionally, the Grand Canyon is home to a variety of birds, including eagles, hawks, and vultures, so be sure to bring your binoculars so you can get a closer look.

Experience the Night Sky

The Grand Canyon offers some of the most spectacular views of the night sky. With its lack of light pollution, the stars appear brighter and more vivid than ever. To experience the night sky, take a guided tour or simply take a hike at night and look up. Additionally, the Grand Canyon is a great spot for stargazing, and there are a variety of astronomy tours available for those who want to learn more about the night sky.

Visit the Native American Sites

The Grand Canyon is home to a variety of Native American sites, including the Havasupai Tribe, the Hualapai Tribe, and the Navajo Nation. These sites provide visitors with an in-depth look at the culture and history of the area, as well as unique and stunning views of the canyon. Additionally, there are a variety of tours available that will take you to these sites, as well as guided hikes and rafting trips.

Go Rafting

The Grand Canyon is also a great place to go rafting. The Colorado River that runs through the canyon is perfect for rafting, and there are a variety of guided rafting trips available. These trips range from mild to intense, and offer the perfect way to experience the canyon from a different perspective. Additionally, these trips are often accompanied by experienced guides who can provide insight into the area’s history and geology.

Camping

For those looking for a more rustic experience, camping is a great way to explore the Grand Canyon. There are a variety of campgrounds located throughout the park, so you’ll be able to find the perfect spot to set up camp. Additionally, the Grand Canyon is a great place for hiking, so you’ll be able to explore the area on foot and enjoy stunning views of the canyon from a variety of vantage points.

Conclusion

The Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world, and it is a great place to explore without the risk of Zika. Packing for the weather, exploring the trails, visiting the lookouts, and taking a tour are all great ways to experience the canyon. Additionally, the Grand Canyon is home to numerous lodges, museums, and Native American sites, as well as plenty of wildlife and stunning night skies. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adrenaline-filled adventure, the Grand Canyon has something for everyone.