Facts on the Grand Canyon in Arizona, USA

The Grand Canyon is a national park located in Northwestern Arizona. Due to its "grand" size and natural views, the Grand Canyon is one of the seven wonders of the world. People from all over the world travel to Arizona to tour the Grand Canyon.

Size

According to the U.S. National Park Service, the Grand Canyon spans 277 river miles long, has a depth of one mile and is up to 18 miles wide in some parts.

Geography

The Grand Canyon cuts into the Colorado Plateau, and is said to have formed approximately six million years ago due to the erosion by the Colorado River. With minimal soil present, the Grand Canyon does not have an abundance of vegetation. However, parts of the northern rim contain evergreens.

Ecosystems

Various ecosystems exist in the Grand Canyon. Plants, birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects and fish are found in the Grand Canyon.

Archeology

Ancient artifacts were found in the Grand Canyon; some of the oldest dated back to the Paleo-Indian period. There have been over 4800 archeological resources recorded from the Grand Canyon.

Park History

The Grand Canyon became a National Park in 1919. According to a March 2010 update by the U.S. National Park Service, the Grand Canyon attracts nearly five million visitors each year.

References

• U.S. National Park Service: Grand Canyon National Park
• Grand Canyon Facts: Grand Canyon National Park Facts
• U.S. National Park Service: History and Culture