The Grand Canyon leaves all who experience it with a sense of wonder, magic and awe. From its dramatic 1500 m (5000 ft) deep, 446 km (277 mi) long, and up to 29 km (18 mi) wide gorge, to its diverse plateaus, towers and hills, the Grand Canyon is one of the world's most stunning destinations. Rich with exceptional beauty, ancient geological history and modern universal amazement, the Grand Canyon attracts more than 5 million tourists each year.

Just 247 miles north of Phoenix, Arizona, the Grand Canyon is frequently a destination for Arizona visitors. The number of things to do in the Grand Canyon is countless. Experience the majestic beauty of the Grand Canyon for yourself. Take a trip down the Colorado River and see deep into the Grand Canyon's characteristic gorge. Marvel at the layer upon layer of rock, piled like a stack of pancakes. Float down the river on a expertly guided tour and watch wildlife surrounded by tiers of limestone, sandstone, and shale excavated by the Colorado River and over half a billion years of wind, water and energy.

See the Grand Canyon as the eagle does and soar above the plateau on a helicopter or airplane tour. Fly around towering buttes, mesas, and valleys within the Grand Canyon's main gorge. Soar over dense evergreen forests of juniper and piñon, or arid plateaus speckled with desert plants like agave and Spanish bayonet. The Grand Canyon plateau region's forests are segmented by old lava flows, hills of volcanic debris and intrusions of igneous rock. Seeing the Grand Canyon by air is an unforgettable adventure with a unique perspective.

You may choose to experience the Grand Canyon by land. Walk in the footsteps of ancient peoples and explorers that first discovered the Grand Canyon. Make your own adventure or take a guided hike or horseback tour. Or choose one of the area's popular jeep or bus tours and allow area experts to open your eyes to the Grand Canyon's endless wonders.

Dotted amongst the communities that surround the Grand Canyon, tourists seeking lodging will find charming bed and breakfasts, grand hotels and lodges, resorts, cabins, vacation rentals and more. Whatever you fancy as the perfect accommodation, Grand Canyon lodging is your dream come true.

You will also find restaurants, shopping, art galleries, and other services in the communities of the Grand Canyon area. Find yourself wandering through quaint boutiques, art and shopping areas. Discover one-of-a-kind hand-made treasures and enjoy the thrill of selecting a special souvenir.

And if you've spent some time in the Grand Canyon and you think you've done all there is to do, there are even more attractions just a short drive away. Dramatic Sedona is less than two hours south, scenic Flagstaff is about 80 miles southeast, and historic Prescott is two hours away, just south of Sedona. And just 4.5 hours south in the Valley of the Sun, one could get lost forever in the numerous activities offered in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Cave Creek and Carefree. Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and Las Vegas are frequent choices for commercial air travel, and both Grand Canyon Airport and Flagstaff's Pulliam Airport are available for private commuter and tour company planes.

What climate should you expect on the Coconino and Kaibab plateaus, the North and South Rim? At 1500 and 2700 km (5000 and 9000 feet ) above sea level, the climate of the plateau region above the Grand Canyon can swing between extremes of heat and cold. The canyon floor can also exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, but seldom experiences frost in the winter. Regardless of the weather, the Grand Canyon is one of the world's favorite sites year-round. Visit the Grand Canyon and see why it has been the stuff of wonder for centuries of adventurers, vacationers, artists and explorers. Enjoy your trip!