“We have to reinforce our traditions so that we can continue being a unique group which is the Hualapai People.” “The one takeaway I hope people have is understanding the culture,” says Jackson, emphasizing that Grand Canyon West is operated separately from the National Park Service. Jackson’s life’s work has included pushing for land rights, language preservation, and environmental stewardship on an intertribal level both locally with the Hualapai and surrounding Southwestern tribes as well as nationally. On my visit I was fortunate to be led by Loretta Jackson, Ambassador Department Supervisor at Grand Canyon West, who shared the cultural and historical context, adding a rich layer to any visit. Grand Canyon West ambassador Loretta Jackson. Exploring the breathtaking views at sites like Eagle Point and Guano Point, it’s easy to see why this land is sacred to its people. The Hualapai have resided in this region for thousands of years, and continue to be land stewards to this day. Upon entering, you’ll see swaths of oversize Joshua trees, desert willows, mezcal agaves, and piñon pines, the latter of which the Hualapai Tribe derived its name from, translating to “people of the tall pine.” Situated at 4,000 feet above sea level, this stunning area is home to unparalleled beauty in the high desert, and is a microclimate all on its own. Soon, the road gives way to oversize Joshua trees, and opens up onto the expanse of the world’s most famous geological marvels. To experience Grand Canyon West firsthand, I recently made the trip myself, flying into Las Vegas and driving two hours east along a wildflower-lined highway into western Arizona. With magnificent landscapes, multiple ways of accessing its grandeur, and a rich Indigenous history, it’s the ideal road trip for both the adventurous and culturally curious. And its most spectacular region is located at Grand Canyon West outside Peach Springs, Arizona, just a two hour drive from Las Vegas, making it an exceptionally accessible destination. Spanning over 1,900 square miles, this geological phenomenon intersected by the Colorado River is a must-see in the desert Southwest. When it comes to tourist destinations that actually live up to the hype, the Grand Canyon is at the top of the list.
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