Canyon Impressions - past and present
Ancient Indians knew the Canyon well.
Their legends say the awesome gorge
was formed suddenly by great floods.
It had deep religious meaning.
A century of scientific study indicates
natural forces of erosion slowly cut
the Canyon while the land was
gradually uplifted. The process has
taken several million years and is
still going on.
"They spent their days trying to
find a way down to the river which
from above appeared to be only a
fathom wide... ...The men who
remained above estimated that some
small rocks jutting out from the
wall of the canyon must be as
high as a man; but hose who
went down swore that when they
reached them they were found
to be taller than the highest
tower of Saville."
—Coastaneda-1540
Early explorers found the Canyon a formidable
barrier, but could not comprehend its
immensity. Hopi Indians led Spanish
Conquistadors to the South Rim in 1540.
Their observations were recorded.
Rocks nearly 2 billion years old are
found in the Canyon's depths. Higher
up the walls the rocks are progressively
younger. Fossil plants and animals
show the development of life from
simple to complex forms.
Prospectors searched for riches in
the age-old rocks exposed by erosion
but real tresure eluded them.
1885-1910
Grand Canyon National Park preserves
this scenic, scientific, and historic heritage.
Guard this treasure well!
