The Hualapai Tribe of Native Americans’ territory is a 100-mile stretch of land that includes Grand Canyon West. Their economy depends on tourism, so they came up with a plan to give tourists a thrilling experience they can get no where else — walk on a U-shaped clear glass walkway suspended 4,000 feet above the Colorado River, for a spectacular view previously only available to birds. The deck is 10 feet wide, juts out 70 feet, and is made of laminated tempered glass. It is supported by outer and inner steel beams anchored into solid stone in the wall of the canyon. Glass side rails are 1 1/2 inches thick and 4 1/2 feet high. The path is 140 feet long from start to finish. The structure is said to support 100 pounds per square foot, can withstand an 8.0 magnitude earthquake, and 100 mph winds. The designers claim it can hold 822 two hundred pound people at one time. The Hualapai invited Dr. Buzz Aldrin for the “first walk” at their Grand Opening, along with Native American astronaut, John Herrington (the first American Indian to fly into space). Each man started at different ends and met in the middle, followed by tribal elders and VIPS. I somehow got to be in the next group, so was privileged to follow in Dr. Aldrin’s footsteps. When we approached the walkway, we were given booties to wear over our shoes to protect the pristine clear glass. On each side of the pathway is about 1 1/2 feet of opaque glass, and the middle is clear. My first instinct was to keep on the opaque glass, as it felt “safe”, which was ridiculous, of course. When I looked back, everyone else had the same psychological feeling. Eventually, about one-third of the way along the path, I got brave and walked on the clear glass and managed to let go of the railing. By the end of the walk, I was fearless! Some folks coming off said they had butterflies in their stomachs the whole time and clung to the side, and others just reveled in the experience. The breathtaking view from across the Skywalk is of Eagle Point, a formation that looks like an eagle spreading his wings. The view down to the river is amazing — watching birds circling around below and the ancient rock formations. Also, the canyon is so quiet, with just the sound of an occasional breeze and bird cry. The Grand Canyon is like no where else on earth. The Hualapai have created an authentic Indian village in a walking tour setting next to the Skywalk, and an amphitheater presenting Native American performances. At nearby Hualapai Ranch, you can step into the old west and saddle up a horse for a trail ride. Wagon rides, cattle drives, a cowboy cookout, and a gun fightin’ show are also available. Future plans for the attraction include a Visitor’s Center, a high-end restaurant on the edge of the canyon, a museum, gift shop and movie theater. There are several tour options available from town, by helicopter or bus. The Skywalk is about a 2 1/2 hour ride from Las Vegas. A variety of tour packages are available. For more information, visit http://www.DestinationGrandCanyon.com. For more on Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine, visit http://www.AccentOnTampaBay.com