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Quick Look at Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, a designated World Heritage Site, and one of the Crown Jewels of the National Park System. Declared a national park in 1919, the mile-deep, 277-mile long gorge draws nearly five million visitors annually to the lofty rims and world-class whitewater that await the active traveler.

The 1.2 million acre park is home to numerous animals (from the endangered California condor above, to cougars, rattlesnakes and Gila monsters below), over 1,500 species of plants, archaeological sites dating back thousands of years, and one of the most complete geologic cross sections visible anywhere on the planet.  Sustaining these plant and animal communities, as well as carving the Canyon ever-deeper, is the powerful Colorado River, the lifeblood of the desert Southwest.

Grand Canyon Slide Show

 
 

 
Quick Look at Grand Canyon National Park from www.thecanyon.com

 More interesting facts about the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is more than a great chasm carved over millennia through the rocks of the Colorado Plateau. It is more than an awe-inspiring view. It is more than a pleasuring ground for those that explore the roads, hike the trails, or float the currents of the turbulent Colorado River.

This canyon is a gift that transcends what we experience. Its beauty and size humbles us. Its timelessness provokes a comparison to our short existence. In its vast spaces we may find solace from our hectic lives.

The Grand Canyon we visit today is a gift from past generations. Take time to enjoy this gift. Sit and watch the changing play of light and shadows. Wander along a trail and feel the sunshine and wind on your face. Attend a ranger program. Follow the antics of ravens soaring above the rim. Listen for the roar of the rapids far below. Savor a sunrise or sunset.

As the shadows lengthen across the spires and buttes, time passing into the depths of the canyon, understand what this great chasm passes to us - a sense of humility born in the interconnections of all that is and a willingness to care for this land. We have the responsibility to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to form their own connections with Grand Canyon National Park.

Wildlife Alert

Never approach wild animals. Photograph all wildlife from the safety of your vehicle. Use telephoto lenses and observe quietly.

It is dangerous, and illegal, to feed wild animals in a national park. Violators will be fined. Wildlife can become dependent upon handouts and lose their ability to hunt and forage. Such animals lose their fear of humans. They can become aggressive and bite, kick, or gore. Many are struck by cars while searching for handouts. Help us keep wildlife wild. Never feed or approach wildlife.

Pets must be on a leash at all times. Loose or feral pets often disturb or kill wildlife or their newborns. Protective wildlife parents can be aggressive and could harm you or you pet. Keep wildlife and your pets safe by observing the leash law.

 
Pictures from www.picturesofplaces.com    More interesting facts about the Grand Canyon from www.nps.gov