Mind-Blowing Facts About the Grand Canyon That Will Leave You Speechless

Lennart Sikkema/Wikipedia

The Grand Canyon is not just a stunning landmark; it’s filled with mind-blowing facts that might surprise even the most ardent nature enthusiasts.

First, the age of the Grand Canyon is a big mystery. Many people think the Colorado River started curving out the canyon about 6 million years ago, but some new research says it might have started as long as 70 million years ago. So, what we see now could have started as smaller canyons that came together to form the Grand Canyon.

The Grand Canyon’s weather is also fascinating. Because the canyon is so tall and has many different heights, it has its own special weather. For example, the Bright Angel Ranger Station on the North Rim is often cold and wet. But it can get scorching and dry just 8 miles away at Phantom Ranch. The canyon’s different heights change the weather in various places.

In another interesting twist, the Grand Canyon might not hold the title for the deepest canyon in the world, though it’s still impressive at 6,093 feet deep. The Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon in Tibet takes the crown with a jaw-dropping depth of 17,567 feet, making it over two miles deeper and about 30 miles longer than the Grand Canyon. It’s a reminder of how the Grand Canyon, while extraordinary, faces some stiff competition globally.

If you’re a dinosaur fan, you might be surprised to learn that the Grand Canyon contains no dinosaur bones. The rock layers here are about a billion years older than the dinosaurs. However, the canyon isn’t devoid of historical treasures. Fossils of ancient marine creatures and land mammals from around 10,000 years ago have been uncovered, providing a glimpse into the rich history that predates the dinosaurs.

Here’s a mind-blowing fact: there’s a small town inside the Grand Canyon! Supai Village is at the bottom of the canyon and is the most remote town in the lower 48 states. With just 208 people living there, the only way to get to Supai is by mule. It’s also the only place in the U.S. where mule delivers mail. This little village is a special and unique part of the Grand Canyon.

These unique facts highlight the Grand Canyon’s remarkable features and deepen our appreciation for this natural wonder.

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