What Makes the Grand Canyon So Magnificent

The Grand Canyon is a World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

It is one of the most visited national parks in the country. Over 4 million people visit each year, and many leave with a deep respect for its stunning beauty. Most people know what the park looks like in photographs but are unprepared for the impact it will have on them when seen in person. The canyon is a stunning visual that often leaves visitors in awe.

Unique Geological Finds The layers of rock that form the canyon represent almost 2 billion years of Earth's history.

Geological studies have revealed the mystery of nearly 1 billion years of missing rocks from the canyon. Researchers currently theorize the boulders became crushed 700 million years ago during the breakup of the supercontinent Rodinia. The tons of missing sediment washed away and became part of the ocean floor. Scientists often refer to the missing rocks as the Great Unconformity.

Amazing Archaeological Discoveries Fossils found in the canyon include marine fossils over 1 billion years old and 10,000-year-old mammal fossils. Throughout the canyon, fossils are still visible in the exposed walls. Guests may see preserved biological items that include brachiopods, sponges, scorpion footprints, fossilized leaves, and dragonfly wing impressions.

Human habitation within the canyon area goes back 12,000 years. Stone spear points left behind reveal their existence. Other finds include figurines shaped like deer and sheep made from twigs.

Inhabitants of the area crafted the items as far back as 2000 B.C., and visitors can view them in the park's Tusayan Museum and Pueblo.

Interesting Park Sites Just before the entrance to the Grand Canyon National Park is the skywalk. The platform allows visitors a bird's eye view of the canyon. The skywalk includes a glass floor, so those brave enough can see between their feet an unimpeded view of the massive drop to the bottom of the canyon.

Another incredibly scenic and popular stop is Havasupai Falls. The falls and area surrounding them belong to the Havasupai tribe and are part of their reservation. To prevent visitors from overwhelming the site, all guests must reserve tickets with the tribe to visit the falls and hike into the location. It is worth the effort as those who complete the hike will discover a stunning 100-foot waterfall that creates a pristine deep blue pool beneath, all surrounded by a lush landscape.

The Grand Canyon and surrounding area offer unique views, amazing geological formations, and the opportunity to see nature at its finest. The versatility of the sites within the park surrounding the canyon makes it a stunning destination with something of interest to nearly every visitor.