I doubt that you can substantiate that statistic. Even if you could,
what about all the literally hoards of people who are scattered across
the rims of the Canyon, especially but not limited to the visitor
centers on the north and south rims, not to mention the endless
wilderness areas. One doesn't need to be a hiker to enjoy it on the
ground. I have run the river twice, visited the crowded visitors
centers, hiked some canyon trails and been to remote overlooks that
tourists aren't likely to know about. Believe it that there are far more
people on the ground and in the water than there are flying over in GA
aircraft or tour planes. Official estimates are 5 million. This doesn't
include many people like me who enter via remote access. Most of these
people don't want to listen to aircraft noise. Even I, who love flying,
don't want to listen to it when I'm there. You view these people as
"arrogant," a "vocal minority," "sanctimonious, holier-than-thou turds."
Your tone suggests some of these same descriptors. They are just people
trying to enjoy the Canyon in a legitimate way, as you are trying to
enjoy it your way. As much as we don't like it, GA may be the minority
on a lot of issues these days. So please do organize GA to protest the
protests of the non-flying group of Grand Canyon visitors, but you'll
have more credibility without the attitude.

Jay Honeck wrote:


My point stands. Ten times more people fly over the Canyon than will
ever have the chance to hike into it. Are these people somehow less
important? Are they second-class citizens?