Every section of the canyon is rich with majestic natural beauty. The vistas are magnificent no matter where you're at in the Park. Some people say the South Rim surpasses the West, but plenty of others disagree. Personally, I think there are enough things to see and do at Grand Canyon West to satisfy just about anyone - even kids!

Here's a quick overview of what to see while you're visiting Grand Canyon West (the beautiful West Rim).

The Grand Canyon Skywalk

The fabulous Grand Canyon Skywalk(also called the "Glass Bridge" since it's made of transparent glass) might be one of the most popular places at Grand Canyon West. Basically, it's a U-shaped bridge that juts out 70 feet over the edge of the canyon. At its apex, you'll be standing almost a mile above the mighty Colorado (and yes, you can see through the floor of the bridge!).

It might sound scary, but it's safe. For one thing, it's built to withstand 100 mph+ winds and can handle an 8.0 magnitude earthquake. Plus, it's designed to support the weight of over 70 fully-loaded Boeing 747s. In terms of people, the Skywalk can support more than 800 people who weigh 200 pounds each. Even so, just to make sure they only let 120 people out there at once. I'm here to tell you, it's quite a thrill, and it's a Grand Canyon must-do.

Final note: The good folks that own and operate the Skywalk prohibit the use of cameras and personal electronics (e.g. smart phones and camcorders). The official reason is that such devices will chip the glass when dropped. Personally, I don't buy that. Instead, it's my belief that this rule is in place so you have to purchase photographs. Don't fight it. Instead, go for the deluxe package. I did, and I got a bunch of fantastic shots of me on the bridge in various poses, all shot by a professional photographer.

Eagle Point

Eagle Point is another place that's on a lot of visitors' lists of what to see while they're at Grand Canyon West. The sightseeing there is pretty amazing, with interesting rock formations. It's also the site of an authentic Hualapai Indian village (this is the tribe that owns Grand Canyon West). Going there is very educational, and you'll get several interesting insights into the traditional customs, clothing, building styles and rituals of the local Native Americans. Your kids will pick up some history lessons on what life was like in the old American West, and shoppers will enjoy browsing through the native art and jewelry that's up for sale.

Should be noted that there are no guard rails at Eagle Point (and Guano Point). In fact, there are no guard rails anywhere inside Grand Canyon West. I strongly recommend you keep a close eye on your kids. Further, please pay attention where you are standing, stepping and walking when taking photographs near the edge. I've seen pre-occupied travelers step within inches of the lip while going for that perfect shot. I'm not trying to make you overly cautious. Just be aware of your surroundings and you're perfectly safe.

Photo: l0da_ralta - Licensed via WikiMedia.

Hualapai Ranch

When families who'll be traveling with kids ask me for suggestions of what to see at Grand Canyon West, Hualapai Ranch always pops to mind. That's where you'll find a recreated "Old West" town. You can catch an old-time western show there - always a thrill for the kids! Recharge your batteries at one of the eateries at Hualapai Ranch, then shop for souvenirs as mementoes of your trip. For some, this might seem a bit too "touristy." However, I've always enjoyed myself here (especially the impromptu entertainment and re-enactments) and find it a great compliment to the West Rim experience.

Guano Point

I bet you never thought you'd be able to see an old mine while you're visiting Grand Canyon West. Well, you can, although this mine didn't produce gold, silver, copper or another valuable metal. At this one, bat dung (guano) was removed from a cave to be processed later into fertilizer. That's how Guano Point got its name. Eventually the mine was abandoned, but there is still some interesting, historic equipment to see. You can even have a picnic lunch near the old mine tramway house.

There's also an easy hiking trail at Guano Point. Hiking is a great way to stretch your legs while soaking in some of the canyon's fantastic beauty. I frequently get asked if there's a trail down to the bottom. There isn't, and if there were, you wouldn't be able to go down and back in a day. Such trails exist at the South Rim, but that's over 200 miles away to the east. Frankly, I'd stick to the rim-top trails. And during summer, always bring water. Temperatures at the rim consistently exceed 100 degrees, so it's important to always stay hydrated.

Photo: Laslovarga - Licensed via WikiMedia.

Tours

There's a myriad of tours from Las Vegas to the West Rim. The most popular are bus, helicopter and airplane. Go bus if you are on a tight budget or don't like flying. Helicopter tours are the most exciting and thrilling way to get there. Airplane tours are the fastest (30 minutes!) and cost less than helicopter rides. Should be noted that the West Rim is the only place where you can:

• Ride a helicopter to the bottom
• Take a Colorado River boat ride
• Enjoy views from the Grand Canyon Skywalk

Each of these side adventures can be added to any basic bus, helicopter and airplane package, and I encourage you to do so.

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These are just a few highlights that should be on your list of what to see while you're visiting Grand Canyon West. There's plenty more, so enjoy!