The Grand Canyon

Just how big is
The Grand Canyon?
Carved predominantly by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon is 277 river miles long and is nearly 18 miles across at its widest point.   The Grand Canyon is located in northwestern Arizona, but the north rim is easily accessed from Utah and from Cave Lakes Canyon.   The world's largest chasm is a very diverse biological location.  From top to bottom the canyon covers and area that spans over 8,000 feet in elevation.   Four of the five desert zones found within the western United States are found within the canyon.   These zones are labeled as the lower and upper Sonoran, Transition, Canadian and Hudsonian.  

History:
Native Americans have inhabited this region for thousands of years and various tribes now have reservations on or near the canyon.   In the 1700's Spanish explorers passed through the Grand Canyon region and in the 1800's American explorers mapped the course of the Colorado River.   The deep chasm blocked easy passage from Utah to Arizona but there is one main crossing and a modern day bridge in the Lee's Ferry and Marble Canyon area.  

Geology:
An ancient sea-bed the Grand Canyon was forced upward by shifting forces within the earth and then the canyon was slowly carved by the movement of water across the terrain.  Rivers cut down into ancient layers of sediment and exposed what we see today.   River runners will pass through various rock layers as they move on a downhill run through the Grand Canyon.  

Flora: 
Thousands of species inhabit the many life zones found within the Grand Canyon.   Approximately one dozen plants are unique to the Grand Canyon while others are common to the region.   Some of the plants are specially adapted to growing on the walls of the canyon.  The North facing slopes receive less sunlight and the plants in these areas are similar to those found in higher elevations around North America.   South facing slopes hold plants that are more similar to those found in the Sonoran desert. 

Fauna: 
The Colorado River and the surround cliffs and canyons are home to thousands of species of animals.   Large animals include coyotes, elk, deer, bears, mountain lions, bighorn sheep, porcupines and squirrels.  The California Condor has been reintroduced to the Grand Canyon and is making a remarkable come-back in its population numbers.   Look for this large bird riding the thermals of this canyon region with wing-spans that can exceed nine feet.   Snakes, lizards, Gila monsters, and other reptiles are common in the Grand Canyon.  

Activities:
Mule trips are available on the north rim, and trails for hiking are plentiful.   Always prepare for any physical activity by bringing plenty of food, water,  proper clothing and supplies.  Weather at the north rim of the Grand Canyon can vary greatly at any time of year.   Bring your camera, and enjoy one of the most remarkable wonders of the world.