The Grand Canyon is valued for the combination of large size, depth, and the exposed layering of colorful rocks dating back to Precambrian times. It was created mostly by regional tectonic uplift, but also by erosion from the Colorado River and its tributaries.
The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long and it's a vertical mile from the rim to the Colorado River below. The width of the canyon at Grand Canyon Village is 10 miles. A trip to the bottom of the canyon and back (on foot or by mule) is 7 miles and is a two day journey.
©2006 Don Davis