History of the Grand Canyon
Arizona Travel Guide brings you a potted history of the Grand Canyon in Arizona.
Here is a very brief summary of the history of the Grand Canyon. You could write a book about the full history – and several people have!
The Grand Canyon is a mile-deep gorge in northern Arizona that was carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. It is one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world, with its colorful rock layers and diverse landscapes.
When Was the Grand Canyon Formed?
The Grand Canyon’s formation began nearly 6 million years ago when the Colorado River started cutting through the Colorado Plateau. Over time, erosion by wind and water exposed layers of rock, revealing a geological history that dates back over 2 billion years. The canyon itself is estimated to be around 5-6 million years old.
Human Occupation of the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon has a long and rich history of human occupation and exploration. Archaeologists have found evidence of prehistoric cultures that lived in and around the canyon for thousands of years, such as stone spear points, split-twig figurines and ancient ruins. Some Native American tribes, such as the Havasupai, still claim the Grand Canyon as their ancestral home. Native Americans have lived here for 10,000 years,.
The first Europeans to see the Grand Canyon were Spanish explorers in the 1540s, led by Francisco Coronado. They were followed by other Spanish missionaries and explorers in the 18th century, such as Francisco Domínguez and Silvestre Vélez de Escalante. However, they did not explore much of the canyon or appreciate its beauty.
Scientific History of the Grand Canyon
The first scientific expedition to explore the Grand Canyon was led by John Wesley Powell in 1869. He and his team navigated the Colorado River through rapids and dangers, making maps and observations along the way. Powell’s reports sparked interest and curiosity about the canyon among Americans.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, more people visited and settled in the Grand Canyon area. They built trails, roads, hotels, railroads and dams to make it more accessible and profitable. Some also exploited its natural resources, such as mining for copper and uranium.
When Did the Grand Canyon Become a National Park?
In 1893, President Benjamin Harrison declared part of the Grand Canyon a forest reserve to protect it from development. In 1908, President Theodore Roosevelt expanded it into a national monument. In 1919, Congress finally established it as a national park.
Since then, millions of tourists have flocked to see the Grand Canyon every year. They can enjoy various activities such as hiking, rafting, camping, and sightseeing. The Grand Canyon also attracts scientists who study its geology, ecology and history.
Frommer’s Arizona and the Grand Canyon
This is our recommended guide for Arizona and the Grand Canyon, if you’re thinking of planning a visit. The two authors both live full-time in Arizona and the book is therefore based on lifetime experiences of the state. It has 86% 5- and 4-star ratings on Amazon.
