Even if you’ve seen the majestic peaks of the Grand Canyon before, there are always new things to learn about this incredible natural landmark. It’s hard to imagine that a place like this actually exists, but we’re fortunate enough to call our country its home. Here are a few fascinating facts about the majestic Grand Canyon.
The Grand Canyon is over 270 miles long.
Its valleys are up to one mile deep in certain areas, and it is 18 miles wide at its widest points.
Humans have used it for more than just a tourist attraction.
There are signs of human interaction within the Grand Canyon for millennia, and scientists have discovered ruins and other artifacts from as many as 12,000 years ago.
It took some 6 million years to form.
After millions of years of erosion by the Colorado River, the earth’s upraised crust eventually formed what is now the Grand Canyon.
There are over 100 known rapids in the Grand Canyon.
It’s not just rock – the canyon also includes a number of large waterfalls, rapids, and tributaries throughout.
Close to 5 million people visit the canyon per year.
Vacationers from all around the world travel to Arizona to peer over its many lookout points and explore Grand Canyon National Park.
- Grand Canyon [History.com]
- Grand Canyon National Park [National Park Service]
- Grand Canyon Facts & Figures [National Geographic]
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