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Grand Canyon

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Gand Canyon is a deep gorge carved out of the Colorado Plateau, surrounded by the Kaibab National Forest, between Nevada and Northwestern Arizona

More than 80 million years ago, an upheaval in the earth's crust began forming the dome-shaped Colorado Plateau in the northwestern corner of present-day Arizona. Six million years ago, the Colorado River carved a path through the plateau, or tableland, creating an enormous gorge. This gorge is called the Grand Canyon. It is 277 miles (446 kilometers) long, up to 17 miles (27 kilometers) wide,
and up to 6,000 feet (1,830 meters) deep.

Five million people visit the Grand Canyon each year. Nine out of every ten tour the South Rim on foot or by park shuttle or tour bus. For the daring, mule rides from the South Rim into the canyon are the adventure of a lifetime. This is a rigorous, two-day journey. Travelers must be 4 feet 7 inches (140 centimeters)  tall, weigh less than 200 pounds (91 kilograms), and understand
English. Children under 15 must travel with an adult.

Several species of endangered birds find refuge in the park, including the peregrine falcon and the bald eagle. Many fish native to the Colorado River are endangered as well.

The Glen Canyon Dam built in 1963 caused changes in water temperature and volume that threaten the Colorado squawfish, humpback chub, and bonytail chub. These fish find a friendly environment within the park's boundaries.

White-water rafting on Colorado River through the heart of the Grand Canyon is a popular activity. The 200-mile (322-kilometer) journey can take from several days to nearly three weeks, depending on the route and the type of transportation that is being used (bus, van, USV, helicopter.

Rafters have a choice of wooden dories (flat-bottomed rowboats with high, flaring sides) or rafts powered by oars or motors. At night, they can pitch camp on white-sand beaches along the riverbank.  back

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