Grand Canyon Skywalk
The Grand Canyon Skywalk, also knows as the Skywalk by visitors, is a simple yet quite spectacular free-standing cantilevered bridge on a narrow angle between two steep cliffs in the center of the Grand Canyon West rim area. The bridge spans eight feet above the rim of the West Rim. It rises and descends a total of fifteen flights of steps from the first landing area where the treads of the stairs alternate with the rise and descent of the cables attached to the suspension cables of the pedestrian path. At the end of the bridge, there is a panoramic view of the surrounding area which includes Maricopa Mountains, Pima County and the west rim of the Grand Canyon.
The Skywalk has been made to withstand the rugged terrains of the Grand Canyon due to its reinforced steel footings and paneling. It is also complemented by lighting that features energy-efficient LED bulbs. The impressive audio-visual equipment that accompanies the Skywalk enables visitors to immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of the canyon while also enjoying the soothing sounds produced by the gentle flow of water over the steel cables of the Walk.
The Grand Canyon Skywalk follows the path marked by an iron rod placed in the center of the Grand Canyon, directing visitors to walk its portion. Along the way, the cables of the walkways are covered with sandstone pavers. Each step is also accompanied by the sound of the rustling of the rough surface of the canyon walls. The panoramic views that come along the way are also accompanied by spectacular colors of the canyon’s flora and fauna.
The cable walkway system was completed in 2021. This exciting addition marks the first public access into the upper canyon areas. Previously, this portion of the Grand Canyon was off limits because of the high cost of installing the overhead cables. The spectacular sight and sounds of nature were also severely limited due to the powerful vibrations caused by the heavy weight of the overhead cables. The new system dramatically changed the way people can enjoy the beautiful sights and sounds of the canyon, bringing it to the public’s attention.
Because of the incredible popularity of the Grand Canyon Skywalk, several other similar systems have been created. An additional cable system called the Skywalk Express is now available. This system allows visitors to walk through the same great outdoors just like they would with the cables. Both of these great additions to the Grand Canyon have made the canyon a tourist favorite.
The Grand Canyon Skywalk costs a little more than the traditional cable system. However, the elaborate design and scenery are well worth the extra price. When you walk beneath the wide skywalk of the Grand Canyon, you are transported to another world. It has the feel of being somewhere in the middle of outer space. You have the same view that you would have if you were on Earth, but there is this dramatic element about being in the desert. You cannot help but be awed by the amazing beauty of this place.
Because it covers an area of nearly 9 square miles, the Grand Canyon Skywalk requires a tremendous amount of manpower and skill. Because of the location and the amount of cables, safety is always a major concern. Because of the cables and the amount of walking required to go around each Cable Park, constant maintenance is necessary to keep it looking its best. A lot of care is also needed to make sure that cables are not damaged.
The Grand Canyon Skywalk adds a fun-filled element to the exciting experience of visiting the magnificent canyon. The skywalk allows visitors to go on the thrilling roller coaster ride through the canyon, while still being able to see the wonders of the earth below. The only problem is that you must be near a computer or television to be able to enjoy it. Once you get a chance to see it for yourself, you will understand just why this attraction is so popular!