For over a century, visitors and tourists from across the globe have toured and visited the Grand Canyon to take in its awe-inspiring and magnificent vistas. The area was initially protected in 1893 in the form of a type of reserve and then later it was named a National Monument. Yet the Grand Canyon only became a National Park on the 26 February 1919. Here are a few interesting facts you may have not known about Grand Canyon National Park.

1. The Grand Canyon Is Larger Than The Rhode Island State

The Grand Canyon itself is 181 miles in width, 277 miles in length and one mile deep. Even though the National Park is not inclusive of the whole canyon, it still measures 1,904 square miles. When comparing the area, Rhode Island is about 1,212 square miles.

2. The Grand Canyon Can Have An Influence Over The Weather

The elevation of this canyon spans from about 2,000 feet to more than 8,000 feet, which allows this area to experience various weather conditions. The temperature typically increases by around 5.5 degrees with every 1,000-feet loss in the elevation.

3. There Are Hidden Caves All Over The Canyon

Another interesting fact about Grand Canyon National Park is all the hidden caves. It has been estimated that this area features around 1,000 caves, with only 335 recorded. Even less are inventoried or mapped. Today there is only 1 cave that can be accessed by the public, which is known as the Cave of the Domes on the Horseshoe Mesa.

4. The Grand Canyon Was Carved About 6 Million Years Ago

Erosion caused from the Colorado River and geological activities is what created the Grand Canyon that we see today. It became a landscape that was studied intensively, with a number of fossil records, several geological features along with a diverse archeological history.

5. The Most Dangerous Animals In The Park Are The Rock Squirrels

From the California Condors and the Gila monster to the Bighorn sheep, this area is the home to many species of wildlife. Yet it is the Rock squirrels which are known for causing the most issues. Each year, many visitors experience painful bites from these animals when they try and feed them.

6. You Can Experience An Aerial View Of The Canyon Without Leaving The Ground

The Skywalk which is situated on Tribal lands and managed by a Hualapai Tribe, is made up of glass sides and a floor encased in a horseshoe-shaped steel frame. It projects around 70-feet from the rim of the canyon and is a very popular attraction at Grand Canyon West.

7. Controlled Fires Are Necessary To Maintain The Landscapes Of The Grand Canyon

Fire has formed a necessary part of this ecosystem for many years. Controlled fires thin the forests naturally, recycle important nutrients in the soil, along with stimulating new plant-growth. The fire managers at the park work on striking a delicate balance between maintaining and restoring processes that are linked with fire, along with protecting property and human life.

Photo by p_a_h

Photo by ahisgett

Photo by 123 Chroma Pixels

Photo by ahisgett