Grand Canyon National Park, located in the state of Arizona in the United States, is one of the natural wonders of the world. Encompassing almost 2,000 square miles, the Grand Canyon is known as a prime destination for nature lovers and adventure-seekers alike. From the breathtaking vistas on the South Rim to the flowing waters of the Colorado River deep in the Canyon, the beauty of the Grand Canyon impacts all who see it.
Since its establishment in 1919, visitors have been drawn to the spectacular sights located in and around the Grand Canyon. At a depth of over a mile in some locations, guests can see the sediment layers cut into the sides of the rocks as the Colorado River carves its path through the area. The multi-hued rock layers are estimated to be at least two billion years old, and as Colorado continually flows, the excavations continue to grow. Watching the sunset from the South Rim, tourists can see the pinks, grays, and tans of the cliffs merge into the colors of the setting sun, showcasing nature’s beauty. A simple walk along the cliffs surrounding the Grand Canyon reveals a kaleidoscope of colors and wonders to behold.
More adventurous sightseers can opt to explore the Grand Canyon’s majesty in other ways. At 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide, there are multiple opportunities to have more intimate encounters with the beauty of the Grand Canyon. Helicopter tours that take tourists down into the Canyon are plentiful, showcasing the cliffs from different angles. Explorers with more time can choose to hike down into the Canyon; donkeys are often utilized in conjunction with these hiking trips to help ferry supplies down the steep slopes. River rafting in Colorado is a popular pastime as well, allowing rafters to camp out for several days and see the stars at night from the comfort of their sleeping bags. Partaking in any of these activities also allows visitors to experience another aspect of the beauty of the Grand Canyon by being able to see the abundant wildlife in the area, including coyotes, hawks, bighorn sheep, and rattlesnakes.