The National Park Service seems to believe that park visitors can never hear too much about smart hiking, the dangers of heat, and the importance of water. The message turns up on park publications, at trailheads, and on bulletin boards in and around the park. Despite the ubiquitous message, many hikers still require medical attention in the canyon. Some mistakes are common even among relatively knowledgeable hikers. One is to not eat enough-during strenuous hikes, eating is just as important as drinking. Another is to let a surge of adrenalin carry you too far into the canyon during the easy hike down. Temperatures climb steadily as you descend, and the hike out can take twice as long. Another is not wearing adequate sun protection. Without sunscreen, a hat, and light-colored clothing on your skin, the heat can drain you even during the cooler months. Sobe careful. Also, remember that the park's wilderness trails are far more rugged than its corridor trails. If you lack route-finding skills, can't read a topographical map, or are not fit, stay off these trails.

Spring and fall are the best times for canyon hiking. During summer, temperatures in the inner canyon can easily top 110 degrees-hot enough to be dangerous even for the well prepared. The rim trails, being much cooler, are better choices than the canyon trails during hot weather. In winter, the North Rim closes. On the South Rim, most trails drop into the canyon through north-facing cliffs, so they can be icy or snow-covered even when the rim itself is dry. In addition to being cooler, all the trails are less crowded during non-summer months. Even so, you probably won't find much solitude on the corridor trails. These trails, which can be unbearably crowded in summer, nearly always have a few people-not to mention mules—upon them.

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Grand Canyon Vacations Raft the Mighty Colorado - The pinnacle of river trips: You can't beat it for hard-driving whitewater and stunning scenery Hiking Canyon Trails - The most intimate experience you can have with the canyon is on the trail. Horseback Riding - High on a sure-footed steed, you'll have the best views of anybody

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