Daddy's Christmas Angel

Monday, April 7, 2014

"F" is for Flagstaff, Arizona, Gateway to the Grand Canyon National Park

"Dream Vision, the Grand Canyon" ©Mary Montague Sikes
The first time we visited the Grand Canyon National Park, I thought we were there when we reached Flagstaff.

We weren't.

Although I still think of Flagstaff as the Gateway to the Grand Canyon, it is actually 80 miles away. It is the largest city near the Canyon, and many tour buses leave from Flagstaff to carry tourists on a very special day trip.

Viewing the Grand Canyon is an experiences everyone should strive to have. It is almost mystical to gaze over the vast expanse of rock formations that at some point is 18 miles across. Looking down, one can see the winding Colorado River a mile below.

Someday, I would like to have the time to watch the changing light on the canyon facades and take photographs all day long. I am glad for Flagstaff as a point along the way with restaurants and information for those who are Grand Canyon bound.

                                                                                          

12 comments:

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

We lived in Arizona when I was a kid, so we visited the Grand Canyon a couple times. You really can't appreciate its size until you are standing there.

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

The Grand Canyon is amazing and doesn't change so much over the years like hotels, restaurants, and man-made places do. Thanks, Alex, for visiting.

Zannie Rose said...

I visited Sedona a few years ago- wish I realised at the time that I could have visited Grand Canyon too- wonder if I will ever get to see and experience it

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Zannie Rose, I hope you come back and get to see the Canyon!

Unknown said...

I am hopefully going to visit the Grand Canyon next year, it looks amazing.

Gracexxx

Hannah said...

Wow that looks amazing. I'd love to visit her someday
Hannah

Jemima Pett said...

One of the best bits of my life, my trip down the Grand Canyon. I was young then! Nowadays I'd look forward to the helicopter ride.

I remember getting the Greyhound to Flagstaff, but I can't remember how I got to the park from there. It was a while ago ;)

Jemima
#TeamDamyanti
Blogging from Alpha to Zulu in April

Romi said...

I have never been to the United States, but if I have a chance to go there some day, I would like to visit the Grand Canyon.

There are so many beautiful places in your country.

Unknown said...

Never been to the Grand Canyon, but it's definitely on my bucket list.

Julie Flanders said...

I had heard how wonderful the Canyon was and of course seen tons of photos but I still couldn't appreciate it until I was there. I really does leave you speechless.

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Grace, you will love the canyon!

Hannah, hope you will put it on your list.

Jemima, that is quite a trek down into the canyon. I've never been brave enough to do it!

Romi C., I hope you get to visit our beautiful land.

Melanie, the canyon should be on everyone's bucket list!

Julie, I know exactly what you mean!

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Monti - it's a place I'd love to see ... that photo encourages me even more! Cheers Hilary