Hispanic Connection to Grand Canyon Grows

The first Europeans to lay eyes upon the Grand Canyon were Spanish soldiers under the command of Garcia Lopez de Cardenas. In search of safe passageways between Spanish missions in modern day New Mexico and California, the party reached the South Rim with their Hopi guides in 1540. Stymied by the expansive canyon, they abandoned their quest and eventually returned to Mexico where their quest began. It would be centuries before explorers, hunters, and prospectors would follow in their footsteps, ushering in the modern day fascination with the grandest of canyons.

The roots of the Hispanic connection to the Grand Canyon are about to grow even deeper as Grand Canyon National Park takes the first steps toward establishing a “sister park” relationship with a Mexican land reserve. An official gathering designed to strengthen this growing partnership between the National Park Service and their Mexican government counterparts took place at Grand Canyon National Park on February 25th. The “Shared Heritage, Shared Stewardship” conference represented another step toward strengthening ties between two countries that share common resources, such as the Sonoran Desert in the case of Grand Canyon, and environmental concerns.

Popular Hermit Road to Close for Repairs

Long term closures throughout most of 2008 are planned for Hermit Road, the seven-mile drive extending from Grand Canyon Village to historic Hermits Rest. Constructed by the Bureau of Public Roads and National Park Service in the mid-30s, this serpentine road with the big views is a favorite among visitors riding the park’s free shuttle bus, and hikers utilizing the adjacent Rim Trail.

Both road and trail have long been in need of structural improvements. To this end, a rolling rehabilitation schedule will begin in early April, and last through November. The park service will be diverting visitors to other points of interest during the construction period. One notable exception will be the morning shuttle for backpackers heading to the popular Hermit Trail. This user group will be allowed to descend the Hermit Trail, but will be required to exit the canyon by other routes such as the Bright Angel Trail.

If all goes as planned, the new and improved Hermit Road will be ready again next spring to host the thousands of visitors seeking the unparalleled beauty and relative remoteness of this breathtaking stretch of the South Rim.

For more information click here http://www.nps.gov/grca/parkmgmt/hermit.htm