Grand Canyon Arizona

There are many fine examples of the natural world in America. One place is simply outstanding, in terms of scenery and geological significance. Grand Canyon Arizona is rightly famous and attracts tourists from all over the world. It's better than any textbook for teaching a lesson on the history of the area. It's a gorge with steep sides, formed in sedimentary rock left by the Colorado River. The gorge is 446km long and reaches 1600m in depth in some parts. Its value was recognized when it was made a National Park in 1919, one of the earliest to do so. The age of the canyon is estimated to be between five to six million years.

Different tribes of Native Americans have an ancient history there and some reservations are still nearby. It's thought that Spaniards were the first Europeans to visit the area. White settlers came to mine, hunt and trap. The area became internationally known and it was a favorite haunt of Teddy Roosevelt. He liked to hunt mountain lions there. People enjoy the Grand Canyon Arizona in different ways today.

Hikers love to come and people even try out their endurance running. Unfortunately, some people underestimate the dangers of over doing it and have to be rescued. They get dehydration and heat exhaustion.  The advice is to make sure that your fitness levels are up to the task and check the weather forecast before setting off. It's much more relaxing to sail serenely over the canyon in a hot air balloon, which some people do. There is also fun to be had on the river, taking a boat trip or white water rafting over the rapids. You can also explore the valley on a mule.

It's a paradise for photographers, especially if you can catch the Grand Canyon Arizona at sunset. The view from the North Rim is superior to the South Rim. Look out for birds of prey, including the rare Californian Condor, which has just been introduced back into the wild. The best thing about Grand Canyon Arizona is the beauty of the layers of colorful rock and the awesome scale of this natural wonder. It is truly unique and no human made structure can equal it. There are subtle changes to the colors at different parts of the day as the light changes. It is important to preserve this treasure and minimize the impact that tourism brings.