| By :
Stephen Daniels
As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon attracts approximately five million visitors every year. People visit from all over the world just to see, up close and in person, the sheer enormity, grandeur and majesty of this natural phenomenon. But those who limit their experience to the rim of the canyon miss an opportunity to fully appreciate how grand this canyon really is. At the bottom lies an almost completely different world than the one most people see. For more than 17 million years, the rushing Colorado River has carved its way through the desert rock, creating an environment unlike any other on earth. Though most of the surrounding landscape is semi-arid desert, the bottom of the canyon holds the ever-flowing waters of the Colorado which support many different types of animal and plant life. Hikers and river rafters should be aware that the canyon is vast, and with such an extreme change in elevations between the river edge and the rims, temperatures vary widely between different regions. Due to the vastly different climates, people often take a break from hiking and rafting with a refreshing dip in the cool water. Sandy beaches line the shores of the river, and natural lagoons provide excellent places to swim and relax. With a 5,000- to 10,000-foot drop from the rim to the river, most people do not attempt the hike. This makes a Grand Canyon river rafting expedition the perfect way to truly enjoy the majesty of this place from a different perspective. A Colorado River white water expedition is the adventure of a lifetime. Visitors can choose to spend a few days or up to several weeks rafting, hiking, learning about the ecosystem, and enjoying the view and adrenaline rush that comes from running the rapids. Since the river provides the propulsion, there is little need for a motor, which can also interfere with the sounds of nature. However, most river rafting expedition businesses offer motorized rafting trips in addition to oar-powered excursions. Without the jarring noise that comes from a motorized boat, wildlife is bound to approach. Sharp-eyed observers may have the opportunity to see bighorn sheep and condors on the steep canyon walls. Of course, the trip isn't all relaxation and bird watching. Hikes into narrow side canyons, and swimming and picnicking by majestic waterfalls provide a break from being on the river all day. A trip to the Grand Canyon is never complete without the unforgettable experience of white-water rafting the Colorado River. It is simply impossible to enjoy all that this unique natural landmark has to offer while standing at the top looking down. Some of the most exciting activities that the park provides can be found at the bottom of the canyon. Those who dare to venture down to the river return home with captivating stories to tell, and never forget their once-in-a-lifetime journey.
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