Grand Canyon Association

A visit to the Grand Canyon is no trip to the zoo; it is a life changing event. You would do well to rally all the help you can get in order to make this experience as enriching and memorable as is possible. That's where the Grand Canyon Association comes in. This natural wonder is their business, their passion, and joy.

The Grand Canyon Association came together in 1932 with the noble ambition of helping the million visitors who wander the canyon like so many ants whose anthill was stepped on. They have thought of a range of activities and operations that will enhance your canyon trip than if you were to go it alone. This includes guided tours, backpacking, hiking, and white-water rafting to only name a few. Their Field Institute conducts classes in geology, history, photography, and even archaeology. Surely they mean business, but they are totally non-profit oriented.

There is nothing low key, small scale or insignificant about the Grand Canyon. And there is no way you by yourself can actually set out to explore, experience and enjoy it all by your own self. It's only when you're there that you realize how small and insignificant you are in the face of this awesome natural wonder. An informed visitor most certainly derives a lot more than the casual traveller who stumbles along.

Those that believe that the Grand Canyon is all about great scenic views and sunsets, certainly have another think coming. The landscape holds inordinate value to the ecosystem, history and geology besides the obvious natural splendour. If not in the know you might step out of trails and onto endangered fossilised rocks and sand, causing damage that you can't even begin to comprehend. You might even pick up a rock zillion years old just because it reminded you of some celebrity's head. If you were educated by the GCA guidelines before you set out, you're less likely to impersonate the proverbial bull in a china shop.