The Grand Canyon is a majestic steep-sided canyon that attracts an incredible 5 million visitors per annum. Located in the southwestern U.S. state of Arizona, it has an average depth of 1220 meters (4000ft), and is 277 miles (445km) long. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most frequently visited, thanks to its breathtaking views of both the canyon and the Colorado River far below. Interestingly, the Grand Canyon National Park is home to several distinct ecosystems, ranging from desert to forest land. These various ecosystems serve as an ecological refuge for many plants and animals, including many endangered species.
John Wesley Powell, a US soldier/explorer who lost his arm in the Battle of Shilo, was the first to use the name, ‘The Grand Canyon’, in 1869, after it had previously been known as either the ‘Great Canyon’ or the ‘Big Canyon’.
Of the Grand Canyon, he wrote, “The wonders of the Grand Canyon cannot be adequately represented in symbols of speech, nor by speech itself. The resources of the graphic art are taxed beyond their powers in attempting to portray its features. Language and illustration combined must fail.”
The rock at the bottom of the Grand Canyon (Vishnu Schist) is estimated to be just under 2 billion years old, whilst the rock on the upper rim (Limestone) is approximately 230 million years old. Just 10 miles separates the North and South Rims of the Grand Canyon, though the hike is typically at least a 2-day journey, as hikers must trek down one side to the Colorado River, and then make the ascent up the other side.
The best time of year to visit the Grand Canyon is during either spring or fall, when hiking conditions are ideal, and visitor numbers slightly lower. That is not to say that you should disregard a summer trip to the canyon by any means. However, high temperatures (exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit) do not provide ideal hiking conditions and large crowds will be present as it’s the peak tourist season. The winter brings harsh cold (sub-zero) and the chance of heavy snowfall, which may prevent access to either rim. In fact, the road to the North Rim is closed between late-October and mid-May each year.
According to beautifulworld.com. Source of photos: internet
