Walhalla Ruins, Grand Canyon North Rim

Culture and history are not far away when visiting the Grand Canyon National Park's North Rim. In fact, it is one of many things that draws in the attention of tourists throughout the year, who come to enjoy a different world, varied outdoor activities and the many tours that are on offer.

The Walhalla Ruins are just one part of the Grand Canyon National Park's North Rim history, an example of ancient native culture. Since its discovery, it has been a source of great interest for scientists, visitors and even local tribes that claim to be the descendents of the ancient people that once lived there.

The Grand Canyon National Park has been subject to many archaeological digs over the centuries, with finds dating as old as ten thousand years. Though still a constant place of in depth research and discovery, the park's Walhalla Ruins, like other historic sites, attract many tourists and even local hikers who have come to experience something a little more unique.

The site does not focus just on the most ancient of its Native American cultures, the Anasazi, but also other tribes who to this day still live in the are or are related to those who do so, including the Navajo, Havasupai, Hualapai and Hopi. The best source of information by far is from the forest rangers, who give free tours throughout the park, and are pleased to share their in-depth knowledge of the ancient human history that once lived there. Another source is on the southern rim, where a major museum has interactive displays, exhibits and other interesting sources of historical information.

One of the first things that stands out about these ruins is that the ancient people were no different from modern man in the fact that they appreciated a good view. However, unlike ourselves, they probably had also more practical reasons for locating their homes where they did.

The ruins can be reached by following a trail along the Unkar Creek towards its mouth. The mouth area is large and is rich in nutrients that made farming then and possibly now very much a lucrative activity. Terraced soil deposits could catch and slowly release spring water run-offs, allowing just enough water to help farm squash, corn and beans. However, during very hot days, the site was abandoned for higher ground, where cliff top homes were somewhat cooler.