The Grand Canyon stands as an iconic and awe-inspiring terrain, renowned as the ultimate representation of North American nature. However, this colossal wonder transcends mere visual appeal and embodies a cultural landscape that has been inhabited, traversed, revered, commoditized, utilized for educational purposes, and celebrated as a source of inspiration by a wide range of individuals over an extensive period of time.

The colossal crevice etched by the Colorado River is a remarkable natural wonder that can be observed from space, making it one of the Earth’s few distinguished landmarks. This awe-inspiring spectacle originates from Lee’s Ferry, just south of Utah, and meanders along the river for 277 miles through Arizona, brushing Nevada en route, before culminating at the California border. The Grand Canyon, as we know it, is not only vast, spanning up to 15 miles at certain points, but it also delves a mile deep, carving through rock that has existed for over two billion years. This majestic landscape is anything but simple, and it continues to captivate the imagination of all who set their eyes upon it.

When the phrase “Grand Canyon” is mentioned, most individuals immediately associate it with the national park. However, it is important to note that the park, which was established in 1919 and spans 1,904 square miles (just 50 square miles shy of Delaware), does not encompass the entire geologic feature. Rather, it is only a portion of the Grand Canyon, which extends beyond the park’s eastern border and further west. In essence, the park is located within the Grand Canyon, but the entirety of the Grand Canyon is not contained within the park’s boundaries.