Discover 15 Fascinating Facts About the Grand Canyon

Facts About the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is Enormous

Did you know that the Grand Canyon encompasses about 4,931 square kilometers (1,904 square miles) or 1,218,375 acres? This vast area is so grand that it can accommodate the entire state of Rhode Island, which measures only 3,144 square kilometers (1,214 square miles) or 776,960 acres.

Given its immense size, there is an abundance to explore at the Grand Canyon. Additionally, due to its expansive layout, you can experience drastically different weather patterns in various parts of the park. For instance, the North Rim could be around 12 degrees Celsius (54°F) while the South Rim might reach temperatures of 18 degrees Celsius (64°F).

But The Grand Canyon is Not the Biggest Canyon in the World

Despite its enormity, the Grand Canyon is not the deepest canyon globally. It boasts a depth of 1,857 meters (6,093 feet) and spans 18 miles (29 km) at its widest point. While these measurements are astonishing, the title of the largest canyon in the world goes to the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon in Tibet, which is not only longer but also has a greater depth than the Grand Canyon.

The Grand Canyon is Filled With Wildlife

The Grand Canyon serves as a sanctuary for approximately 373 species of birds, 18 species of fish, 58 species of reptiles, and 91 species of mammals. Altogether, there are over 8,000 known species that inhabit this breathtaking landscape. Notably, seven of these species are classified as endangered, including the Ridgway’s rail, California condor, southwestern willow flycatcher, razorback sucker, humpback chub, and Kanab amber snail.

Moreover, the botanical diversity is compelling, with around 1,747 species of plants and 208 species of exotic non-native plants present in the Grand Canyon.

Teddy Roosevelt Contributed to Protect the Grand Canyon

Roosevelt’s 1903 visit to the Grand Canyon sparked his commitment to its protection. However, he lacked the authority at the time to designate the area as a national park. Consequently, in 1906, he established the Grand Canyon Game Preserve through a presidential proclamation. It became a national monument two years later and was finally designated a national park in 1919.

The Village of Supai is the Only Village at the Grand Canyon

Home to the Havasupai Tribe, or “The People of the Blue-Green Water,” Supai Village is uniquely accessible only by helicopter, foot, or pack animal. The village, with a population of approximately 208 residents according to the U.S. Census, holds the distinction of being the most remote town in the contiguous United States, receiving deliveries exclusively via mule.

Surrounded by stunning waterfalls and striking red canyon walls, visitors can choose to stay at the Havasupai Lodge or obtain a camping permit. However, it’s crucial to check weather forecasts, as flash floods can occur frequently. In fact, in 2010, around 143 tourists had to be evacuated due to a severe storm. Currently, tourism to Havasupai village has been suspended; check their website for updates.

An Early Instant Photo Business Once Boomed at the Grand Canyon

In 1906, brothers Ellsworth and Emery Kolb founded a photography studio after recognizing a lucrative opportunity. They captured images of tourists departing on mule rides to explore the Grand Canyon’s depths and sold these developed prints upon their return to the South Rim, where their studio was located.

The Grand Hoax in 1909 Happened at the Grand Canyon

On April 5, 1909, the Arizona Gazette detailed findings from two archaeologists who claimed to have uncovered traces of either an ancient Egyptian civilization or Tibetan culture in underground tunnels within the Grand Canyon. However, the Smithsonian Institution denied these claims, and the purported tunnel has yet to be discovered. Some conspiracy theorists continue to assert that a cover-up occurred—what do you believe?

The Grand Canyon is the Gateway to the Afterlife?

For the Hopi Tribe, the Grand Canyon holds significant spiritual meaning. They believe that upon death, a Hopi individual traverses through a “place of emergence” or sipapuni—a dome of mineral deposits located along the banks of the Little Colorado River inside the canyon—on their path to the afterlife.

No One Can Clearly Figure Out How Old the Grand Canyon Is

Geologists have engaged in debates regarding the Grand Canyon’s age for many years. Some suggest it is about 6 million years old, while others argue it may be even older. The challenge lies in establishing its age due to the lack of solid rock records caused by erosion.

As erosion steadily removes material, geologists are left with a reshaped landscape devoid of definitive carvings. Nevertheless, in 2021, a research team posited that the canyon was formed roughly 70 million years ago.

The Grand Canyon Has a Lot of Caves

Home to nearly 1,000 caves, only 335 have been recorded and explored thus far. Interestingly, only a select few caves within the Grand Canyon have been thoroughly mapped.

Although many caves exist, only one is open to public exploration: the Cave of the Domes. Others may be accessible with a permit; however, they are currently closed and reserved solely for research purposes. Within these caves, you can discover some mummified remains of Ice Age fauna and other archaeological artifacts.

Humans Have Inhabited the Grand Canyon for a Long Time

The oldest human artifacts found in the Grand Canyon are estimated to date back around 13,000 years. Excavations have unearthed animal figurines, jewelry, and pottery from the Paleo-Indian era. Native Americans have inhabited this magnificent area for thousands of years and still do today.

In 1540, the first Europeans settled in the Grand Canyon when Spanish conquistador Garcí­a López de Cá­rdenas led an expedition. He sent three soldiers on a mission to explore the canyon’s depths; however, the journey was cut short due to their inability to continue.

Overcome by thirst and without access to clean water, the soldiers found their path blocked by the Hopi Tribe, which protected the Colorado River, keeping it beyond their reach.

European Descent Explorers Navigated to the Bottom of the Grand Canyon in 1869

It wasn’t until 1869 that Europeans decided to investigate the bottom of the Grand Canyon. John Wesley Powell, accompanied by nine other men, embarked on a thousand-mile journey down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. Regrettably, only six of the men completed the expedition.

However, Powell returned in 1871 with a larger group, including a scientist. This second voyage allowed them to produce the first detailed maps of the Colorado River.

Natural Fires are Actually Good for the Grand Canyon

While natural fires may seem detrimental to the national park, research indicates they are, in fact, beneficial for maintaining the ecosystem. Years ago, attempts to extinguish natural fires caused damage to the park and led to unhealthy accumulations of shrubs, grasses, and trees, thereby harming the environment. Presently, natural fires in the park are managed more effectively.

When Are You Planning to Visit the Grand Canyon?

The fascinating facts about the Grand Canyon should inspire your visit at the earliest opportunity. If you choose to explore this natural wonder, being well-prepared is essential for a successful journey. Make sure to check reliable travel tips for planning your adventure to Arizona.