Top Reasons to Go to Grand Canyon

Its status: This is one of those places where you really want to say, "Been there, done that!"

Awesome vistas: Painted Desert, sandstone canyon walls, pine and fir forests, mesas, plateaus, volcanic features, the Colorado River, streams, and waterfalls make for some jaw-dropping moments.

Year-round adventure: Outdoor junkies can bike, boat, camp, fish, hike, ride mules, white-water raft, watch birds and wildlife, cross-country ski, and snowshoe.

Continuing education: Adults and kids can have fun learning, thanks to free park-sponsored nature walks and interpretive programs.

Sky-high and river-low experiences: Experience the canyon via plane, train, and automobile, as well as helicopter, oar- or motor-boat, bike, mule, or on foot.