Heralded as one of the wonderful gifts of nature to this earth, the Grand Canyon is an astonishing landmark nestled in the heart of America. The place is packed with mind-blowing trivia and hidden secrets that leave visitors awestruck. Despite of this, it also adds an unforgettable lifetime travel experience. Stretching for 277 miles in Arizona, its layered cliffs plunge over a mile deep revealing countless stories of ancient seas and shifting continents. Buckle up, as we delve into some interesting facts about Grand Canyon. It draws the attention of geology enthusiasts and history buffs to pay a wonderful visit to this iconic natural wonder.
9 Interesting Facts About Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is housing thousands of majestic caves to harbouring countless wildlife. Despite of that, there are many interesting facts about Grand Canyon encouraging travellers to plan a mesmerising visit to this wonderful place. Before embarking on this adventure, take a look at these interesting facts.
1. Hailed As A Gateway To the Afterlife
One of the amazing facts of Grand Canyon is that it was hailed as a gateway to the afterlife by the Hopi Tribe. There is a dome situated on the banks of the Little Colorado River in the canyon which is referred to as the ‘place of emergence’ or a sipapuni. Furthermore, Hopi people believed that when their people die, they pass through this tunnel and continue their journey into the afterlife. Because of this belief, the place holds a significant place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike.
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2. Houses Numerous Mysterious Caves
One of the most interesting facts about Grand Canyon is that it houses more than 1000 mysterious caves of which only 335 have been unfolded. Unfortunately, only one cave is open to public visit and other caves require a special permit to visit which is also allowed only for research reasons. Moreover, these caves also boasts some archaeological remains, ice age fauna, as well as mummified remains.
3. Evidence Of Human-Habited
According to the findings, the Grand Canyon was inhabited by the Native Americans for thousands of years. Many things like animal figurines, pots and even jewellery are excavated from the Paleo-Indian period. Furthermore, these artefacts are dated back 13,000 years and enchant the interesting tales and folklore of the region’s past. The mystery of this evidence and the hidden secrets behind them are among some of the interesting facts about Grand Canyon.
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4. Harbouring Pink Snake
The Grand Canyon park borders are home to six different species of rattlesnakes, one of which is remarkably pink. Hikers who have visited the Grand Canyon may have encountered one of these snakes. They are the most prevalent snakes in the park, typically found on rocks and sandy paths where they search for lizards to feed. Although they are widespread in the Grand Canyon, this particular kind of rattlesnake is unique on our planet. According to a study. finding them here is one of the most wonderful facts about Grand Canyon.
5. Perfect Location For Wildlife Enthusiasts
One of the most wonderful Grand Canyons of Arizona facts is that this place is no less than a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. The place harbours more than 373 species of birds, 91 species of mammals, 58 species of reptiles and 18 species of fish. Furthermore, the place is filled with wildlife and worth exploring on your next trip. Here, you can also encounter some endangered species such as the humpback chub, the razorback sucker, and the Kanab amber snail.
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6. Grand Hoax Story
On April 5, 1909, the two archaeologists declared that they had found traces of ancient Egyptian civilization in an underground tunnel within the Grand Canyon. These traces could be of Tibetan origin too. Later, the Smithsonian denied the theory of traces and declared that there was no underground tunnel. Some people believe that the Smithsonian covered the evidence intentionally. Finally. the secrets of the lost tunnel are one of the most interesting facts about Grand Canyon.
7. No Data About Its Age
Due to the lack of any rock record, it is hard to discover the real age of the Grand Canyon. It is considered to be about 6 million years old but there is no evidence to support this fact. All the carvings and evidence were lost by erosions and geologists have only a landscape to discover the facts and figures. Furthermore, another research suggests that the Grand Canyon is about 70 million years old but again there is no strong evidence to support this information. Moreover, the mystery behind its age is among the wonderful facts about the Grand Canyon that are yet to be discovered.
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8. Undiscovered Fossils
Thousands of fossils have been found at this place which is one of the surprising Grand Canyon historical facts. It is sure that these are not dinosaur fossils as the canyon was aroused way back before even the dinosaurs existed. Hence, witnessing these fossils and observing them closely are among the best things to do in Arizona.
9. Supai Is The Only Town In Grand Canyon
One of the most interesting Grand Canyon facts is that Supai is the only town nestled in the heart of this captivating region. The town is the shelter of the Havasupai Tribe and The People of the Blue Green Water. Still receiving deliveries by mule, the Supai Village is the most remote town in the U.S. which is only reachable by pack animal or helicopter. Due to the storm attack that hit in 2010, tourism in the Havasupai village is banned for now.
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These astonishing facts about the Grand Canyon will surely add an extra dose of spark to your visit and allow you to explore this iconic landmark to its fullest. Carved by the mighty Colorado River, the canyon’s vastness is humbling. On your next trip to the USA, let your eyes and senses be awestruck by the vibrant rock formations of the Grand Canyon by adding this landmark to your itinerary. Happy Travelling!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Facts About Grand Canyon
Where is the Grand Canyon located?
Hold the dignity of being one of the most visible examples of a stunning geological phenomenon, the Grand Canyon is a mesmerising sight to behold located in northwestern Arizona, U.S. The place is packed with countless mysteries that draw the attention of history buffs and curious minds from all over the world.
What is the best time to visit the Grand Canyon?
To avoid the crowd and get the most out of your visit, you must plan your visit to the Grand Canyon during spring or fall. This is an ideal time to explore this enchanting landscape and explore every essential detail to its fullest.
Who owns the Grand Canyon?
Most of the area of Grand Canyon is owned by the federal government except for private properties.
What are the 5 interesting facts about the Grand Canyon?
Here are some interesting facts about Grand Canyon that you must know before visiting this mesmerising place:
- The actual age and formation period of the Grand Canyon are still unknown.
- There are no dinosaur fossils in the Grand Canyon.
- Supai is the only town located in the Grand Canyon.
- It is considered that natural fires are beneficial for the Grand Canyon.
- It houses more than 1000 mysterious caves from which almost 60 per cent of the area is unexplored.
What are the best things to do in Grand Canyon National Park?
To make the most out of your visit, here are some interesting things that you can do during your Grand Canyon National Park visit:
- Exploring the South Rim
- Embark on South Kaibab Trail
- Explore the North Rim
- Gaze at the desert-view watchtower
- Grandview Point
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