The Grand Canyon: A Journey Through Earth’s Ancient History

_{Source – Canva}

Imagine you’re standing on the rocks that are older than dinosaurs. Yes, there is a canyon called Grand Canyon in the United States that exposes rocks that are over 2 billion years old. This natural wonder carved by the Colorado River is not just a beautiful sight to behold – it’s a journey through Earth’s ancient history. 

In this article, you will uncover many such secrets of the Canyon, its rich and fascinating history, its architecture, some interesting facts, how it became a tourist attraction and a brief guide for travelers on how to explore it.  

Where Is the Grand Canyon Located?

Grand Canyon – Parashant National Monument is located on the northern edge of the Grand Canyon in northwest Arizona, United States. 

Climate and Best Time To Visit

Depending on the temperature, climate changes. Below is the description of the climate of each month, pick the one that suits best for you. 

Climate	Description
Summer (June to August)	The temperature in summer lies somewhere between 40 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Canyon winds can make it hard to feel the heat, so wear a hat and sunscreen to avoid sunburn. Temperatures vary across the park: it’s warmer near the Colorado River but cooler on the North rim. This is the time when all the park’s facilities on both South and North Rim open for business purposes.
Fall (September to November)	Autumn is a great time to visit the place to avoid crowds. Kids are back in school and parents are back to work, fewer tourists are competing for hotels and trails. The temperature falls and lies between 20 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Trails are open in these months but once snow begins, some areas may close for the season.
Winter (December to February)	This is the perfect season to visit the Canyon if you want a peaceful experience. It can be frosty as the temperature lies between 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The north rim of the Canyon is closed as it gets snow of a height of 150 inches, however, the South rim is open for tourists. Make sure to bring some warm clothes and waterproof shoes to save your health.
Spring (March to May)	This is one of the best times to visit the Grand Canyon. But there is a problem that weather can be slightly unpredictable, with late-season snow, rain storms, or warm temperatures. The temperature is typically high in April and March, between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

With the above knowledge, you can consider the best time to visit Canyon is March to May and September to November. The temperature is cool in the daytime and crowds are thin. But if you’re someone who enjoys the summer, then be prepared to meet the heavy crowds and limited lodging availability. 

Rich and Fascinating History

The Grand Canyon, formed over millions of years by the Colorado River, showcases nearly 2 billion years of geological history. Native American tribes, including the Ancestral Puebloans, Hualapai, Havasupai, and Navajo, have inhabited the area for thousands of years, leaving behind rich archaeological evidence.

The first European to see the Canyon was Spanish explorer García López de Cárdenas in 1540. In the 19th century, John Wesley Powell’s expeditions provided detailed maps and scientific observations. Tourism surged in the late 1800s with the railroad’s arrival. Today, the Grand Canyon National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and significance in both natural history and cultural heritage.

10 Interesting Facts About Grand Canyon You Didn’t Know

1. Based on archaeological findings, the first people passing through the Grand Canyon were hunter-gatherers 10,000 years ago. 

2. 11 Indigenous tribes are traditionally associated with the Grand Canyon, including the Hualapai, Havasupai, Hopi, and Navajo. 
    
3. The most dangerous creature at the Grand Canyon is the rock squirrel. Dozens of people each year are bitten, many while attempting to feed – or take selfies with. They are not like normal squirrels. 

4. In 1871, famous explorer John Wesley Powell was the first person to call it as Grand Canyon.

5. It is 277 miles long and 18 miles wide at its widest point. 

6. Today, it is the 11th largest national park in the United States. 

7. It is home to a wide variety of animals. There are about 91 species of mammals, 447 species of birds, 58 species of reptiles, and 18 species of fish.

8. In 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt played a crucial role in making the Grand Canyon a national park. In 1906, he first designated it as a game reserve and then declared it a national monument in 1908. He has played a major role in saving its existence and beauty. 

9. There is a bridge called Grand Canyon Skywalk that extends 70 feet over the canyon’s rim. It offers breathtaking views straight down to the Colorado River. 

10. There are 1000 hidden caves in the Canyon out of which 335 have been recorded to date.  

Tips for Travelers

Where to Stay: 

Bring your tent or RV to enjoy the vibe of camping at Grand Canyon National Park. Mather Campground on the South Rim and North Rim Campground take reservations, while Desert View Campground (open between mid-April to mid-October) offers a first come, first served service. To secure your position, it would be better to keep bookings in advance. Trailer villages offer RV hookups and amenities. 

For those who are seeking more comfort, National Park Lodges and hotels are available for them. Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins, EI Tovar Hotel, and The Grand Hotel are a few examples where people come to enjoy stunning views and fine dining.  

Currency: 

You need to carry money in dollars($). Most of the time online transaction works, but it would be better if you’re carrying some cash. 

Foods to Try: 

French onion soup gratinée, Arizona-grown beef tenderloin and pork loin chili, Navajo tacos, beef Stroganoff, and quiche are the most popular dishes you can try here. 

Conclusion

The Grand Canyon is a place of rocks showing Earth’s ancient history. Native Americans used to live here before it turned into a national park in 1919. Now millions of visitors visit here to see its amazing sights and wildlife. It promises an unforgettable experience to each of them blending natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities.