Jen Brown from Charlottesville shares Grand Canyon Experience
Jen (Jaunting Jen) Brown from Charlottesville, United States provides insight into a Grand Canyon Trip. Jen (Jaunting Jen) shares perspective on the best Grand Canyon attractions and things to do in Grand Canyon. See some incredible photos of Grand Canyon South Rim and surrounding area too!
From Landscapes and wildlife to history and adventure, what’s the one thing about the Grand Canyon that has intrigued you?
It’s hard to pick just one thing because everything about the Grand Canyon is intriguing. Since I have to choose just one I will pick the sheer awesomeness of the geologic history of the Grand Canyon. Its amazing that so much history can be viewed in one place. It’s difficult to put a name on the feeling I get when looking down (or up in the case of a hike) at the layers that form the canyon. That feeling is a mix of awe and reverence of the magnificence of nature. I definitely would like to study the geologic history of the Grand Canyon in depth before my next visit.
If this is your first visit to Grand Canyon, what motivated you to visit? If this is a revisit, what’s your reason for wanting to come back?
This was my fourth visit to the Grand Canyon. I keep coming back because each trip is a new adventure. My first trip I just stopped at the overlooks and took photographs. On my fourth visit I stayed at the Bright Angel Lodge and hiked the South Kaibab trail. On my next visit I would like to take an archaeological river tour, and one day even hike rim to rim!
What are five things your Backpack to the Canyon must contain?
I carry a lot in my backpack but no matter where I’m going I have these five things: 1. A full 3 liter Camelback full of water 2. First Aid Kit 3. Flashlight 4. Emergency blanket that folds to the size of a deck of cards 5. Food * Bonus Mention: My camera goes everywhere with me!
What is the best way to get to the Grand Canyon – By Air, By Road or By Rail? Why?
The best way to go is by car and I have always traveled by car. However, if I flew to Arizona I would fly into Phoenix instead of Flagstaff because there is so much to see on the way. I also once took the lesser traveled HWY 89 N into the Grand Canyon and stopped at Wupatki Ruins, Sunset Crater, and The mini Grand Canyon on the way in. Traveling by car is definitely the best way to enjoy an unplanned adventure.
What is travel to you in one word?
Adventure
What are three tips for an awesome budget trip to the Grand Canyon?
1. The off season in March and April is a great time to avoid the crowds.
2. If you want to stay in the Grand Canyon plan months in advance.
3. Bring your own food, it saves money and time!
What type of camera did you bring? Any tips on shooting the Grand Canyon?
I brought a Canon EOS Rebel Xsi that was my first purchase in 2010, upon returning from Iraq. Even though the camera is going on four years old, I wouldn’t trade it in for anything. It goes everywhere with me and takes awesome photos.
My tips for shooting in the Grand Canyon are:
1. Always make sure the light is behind the camera.
2. Bring the camera everywhere, you never know what you will see.
3. Make sure you have an extra battery and that they’re both fully charged.
What surprised you about the Grand Canyon?
I was surprised at how much there is to see in the Grand Canyon. You can’t really visualize the enormity until you’re actually there. There is so much to do. The trails, South Rim, North Rim, hikes, archaeological sites, river tours and more are enough for dozens of visits. In fact I think I wouldn’t get tired of the Grand Canyon even if I could live and work there. (you’re not hiring are you?)
As a travel destination, how would you rank the Grand Canyon from 1 to 10?
10
Did you visit the Visitor Center?
Yes. I thought the visitors center was awesome, although I didn’t spend a lot of time there because I was too excited to start exploring.
Tell us a little about yourself! Hi I’m Jen, traveler, adventurer, explorer, photographer, and a lot more. I have a travel blog for history lovers at jauntingjen.com. I’m also an Army Veteran. Prior to my military service, I was a student and an archaeologist. I have been to 15 countries, but the Grand Canyon is one of my favorite travel destinations. When I left the Army, I moved to Charlottesville, Virginia for work. I recently left my job to pursue my interests in history and travel. Right now I am finishing up my MA in Ancient History, working on my blog, studying Hatha Yoga, and planning my next adventure. I was fortunate enough to get stationed in Sierra Vista, AZ for almost a year while I was in the military. For me that meant a trip to the Grand Canyon almost every time we had an extended weekend. I also enjoyed my time in Arizona exploring the archaeological and geologic sites scattered throughout the state. Jen (Jaunting Jen) Brown Charlottesville VA, United States
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