Pro tip: watch your step near the Grand Canyon overlooks... I almost learned a hard lesson.

I went to the South Rim last Saturday and it was packed. What got me was how people just wander right up to the edge without looking at the ground. There are cracks and loose rocks everywhere near the viewing spots. I saw a dad let his kid run ahead and the kid tripped on a chunk of sandstone about 6 inches wide. He caught himself but it was too close for comfort. Park rangers say like 12 people fall every year, but I bet that number's low because tourists get distracted by the view. If you go, take a minute to scope out where you stand before you start snapping photos. Has anyone else noticed how unsafe some of those unguarded spots are?

3 comments

3 Comments

ellis.hayden19d ago

We started going early in the morning before the crowds show up. Makes a big difference because you can take your time and watch where you're stepping.

derekward19d ago

Hang on, is this really that big of a deal? I get it's nicer to have space but I've never felt like I was in danger of tripping over stuff at a normal time. @alicew68 I think you guys are overthinking this whole crowd thing.

alicew6819d ago

Yeah we figured out the same thing. Been going to a local spot that gets packed by lunchtime and it was a nightmare trying to find a good place to sit. So now we get there right when they open at 6 and it's empty. We can spread out all our stuff and actually relax instead of feeling rushed. Plus you get to hear the birds wake up which is nice. It's just way less stressful when you're not elbow to elbow with everyone else.