Are you looking for your next family adventure? Have you ever considered a Grand Canyon rafting adventure? Not only will you get to see an American landmark, you’ll be able to appreciate beautiful and natural landscapes, get an adrenaline rush, work with your family as a team, and possibly even road trip through the United States. On a Grand Canyon rafting adventure, you and your family are sure to make incredible memories that will last a lifetime. There are plenty of Grand Canyon travel packages and Grand Canyon river tours as well, so planning your trip should be a total cinch. For those really seeking some adventure, multi day rafting trips or Grand Canyon white water rafting tours are also available. It’ll definitely be a vacation to remember and one that will set you apart from your peers.
What’s the History of the Grand Canyon?
Did you know that the Grand Canyon used to be more thickly inhabited? The first people to live there were Paleo-Indians around 12,000 years ago! We know they used to be there, thanks to tools they left behind. The Grand Canyon itself has been there for far longer; geologic evidence has led scientists to think that the Colorado River burst out of the Grand Canyon’s west end around five million years ago. The river itself goes through schist — a term for a kind of metamorphic rock that’s 1.75 billion years old; almost half as old as the Earth, which is estimated to be around 4.5 billion years old. The Paiute Indian tribe, who still inhabit the Grand Canyon refer to the canyon as Kaibab. This means “mountain lying down” or “mountain turned upside down.” This name comes from the Kaibab limestone, which is a creamy white, and forms the surface where park visitors stand when they look out at the canyon. The canyon itself is about ten miles wide from rim to rim, but to get across by foot is around a 21 mile journey and driving will take you an even longer route — a five hour journey across 250 miles.
Why Should I Visit the Grand Canyon?
The Grand Canyon remains one of the United States’s most famous natural destinations, along with Yellowstone National Park and Niagara Falls. It gets around five million visitors to view its natural beauty every year. It’s also home to around 70 different types of mammals, 250 kinds of birds, 25 species of reptiles, and 5 types of amphibians. The Canyon is regarded as one of the world’s most spectacular canyons, despite being neither the longest or deepest. However, the natural beauty that you can witness while hiking the Canyon surely makes up for that. Additionally, you can learn about some of our history, by speaking with the native tribes who still inhabit the Canyon, and gain a deeper appreciation for the Canyon itself. It’s a great place to hike and the Colorado River is a powerful and magnificent part of the Canyon.
What’s the Fun In Participating in a Grand Canyon Rafting Adventure?
One of the many fun activities you can partake in during your visit to the Grand Canyon is white water rafting — or just rafting, if you’re not looking for that much of a thrill! If you’re part of the almost 80% of Americans who consider outdoor recreation as a vital aspect of their lives, you won’t want to miss this chance! White water rafting is also on many people’s bucket lists — almost 30% of Americans have either done (or want to) white water rafting. Not only is doing a Grand Canyon rafting adventure great exercise, but you can see some amazing views and sights from the water that you wouldn’t be able to get from a hike. It’s a different perspective, for sure. Moreover, if you take a rafting tour, your tour guide will be able to give you a more comprehensive tour of the Grand Canyon!
The Grand Canyon is a popular tourist destination for many visitors, both domestic and international. If you haven’t been before, you should definitely make it a priority to visit one of our most beautiful national landmarks!
