Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon, a natural wonder of the world, located in Northern Arizona, is 277 miles long and 4 to 18 miles wide. At its deepest point, it reaches 6,000 ft in depth. Grand Canyon was formed by the 1,450-mile long Colorado river and the uplifting of the Colorado plateau, a process begun 17 million years ago. Grand Canyon is the 17th national park in the US (1919). Five million tourists visit Grand Canyon every year; 17 percent are from outside the US.

Native Americans built settlements in the canyon before the Europeans arrived, beginning in 1540. In 1869, Major John Wesley Powell led the first expedition down the Colorado river through Grand Canyon.

The North Rim is 1,000 ft higher than the South Rim, averaging 8,000 ft above sea level; it receives more rain and snow, and access is more difficult during the winter season because of road closures. Temperatures vary on both rims, depending on altitude and time of year, from more than 100ºF to below zero.

Sightseeing, hiking, whitewater rafting, and camping are popular in Grand Canyon; mule rides and a 24-mile train ride are also available. Camping on both North and South Rims is restricted to campgrounds. Reservations are recommended. From Las Vegas, several tour companies offer Grand Canyon trips, by motor coach, helicopter, or small airplanes, usually to the West Rim.

Plan your Grand Canyon trip; see The Grand Canyon National Park Service.

See details about the new Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass bridge suspended at 4,000 ft above the Colorado river.

Get Grand Canyon maps from the Grand Canyon National Park Service.