On the second day, we rose early and set out again for our dream destination—the Grand Canyon. This time, the sun showed its full glory. It created a play of light and shadow that highlighted the majesty and contours of the rock formations. We visited nearly all the viewpoints, savoring the atmosphere of this extraordinary land.
The Grand Canyon is a place that will leave you breathless. No photo, no words can fully capture the vastness of this chasm carved by the Colorado River.
A Story Millions of Years in the Making
The Grand Canyon, located in northern Arizona, is the result of millions of years of erosion and geological processes. It stretches 277 miles (446 kilometers) in length, up to 18 miles (29 kilometers) in width, and plunges over a mile (1,800 meters) deep in some places.
Standing at the bottom of the canyon is a surreal experience. You’ll be more than a kilometer below the rim, in an entirely different microclimate.
Secrets and Legends of the Grand Canyon
1. Maasaw, the Hopi God
According to the Hopi people, Maasaw, the Guardian of Death, resides within the canyon. Legend has it that if you see mysterious lights at night or hear rocks clicking, Maasaw might be near. Visitors who encounter him are said to feel nausea, anxiety, and a heightened risk of accidents.
2. Grand Canyon Cavern Suite
220 meters (722 feet) below the surface lies the Grand Canyon Cavern Suite, one of the most unique hotel rooms in the world. This luxurious underground accommodation is rumored to be haunted, but no one has actually seen any ghosts—just an unforgettable atmosphere.
3. 770 Deaths in the Canyon
The Grand Canyon also has a dark side. Over the years, at least 770 deaths have been documented in the canyon, though the true number is likely much higher. For the curious, there’s an interactive map called “Over the Edge” that shows the locations and dates of each tragedy.
Adventures Worth the Adrenaline
Rafting on the Colorado River
Whitewater rafting on the Colorado River is one of the canyon’s most sought-after experiences. You can raft both the upper and lower sections of the canyon, but reservations must be made at least a year in advance.
Grand to Grand Ultra
For running enthusiasts, the Grand Canyon hosts the Grand to Grand Ultra—a 170-mile (275-kilometer) race over seven days. Runners face grueling heat, challenging terrain, and a total elevation gain of 18,000 feet (5,499 meters).
Dark Tales from the Sky
The Grand Canyon is not only stunning but also dangerous, even from above. In 1956, two planes collided over the canyon when their pilots veered off course to give passengers a better view. The tragedy claimed dozens of lives, and some passengers are buried in a mass grave within the canyon.
In 2004, a man named Timothy Clam ended his life during a scenic flight over the canyon. After taking in the awe-inspiring views, he forced open the cockpit door and leapt into the abyss.
Our Challenge: See You at the Bottom?
Anyone visiting the Grand Canyon should see it not just from above but also from the bottom. Imagining a trail down to the Colorado River and back up is not only a physical challenge but also a profound experience.
The Grand Canyon is a place where history, geology, mysticism, and adventure intersect. If we meet at the bottom of the canyon next year, it will undoubtedly be worth the journey. 😊
The Grand Canyon: a Breathtaking Spectacle Spanning three U.S. states
foto: Anry Lukac, restartnisa
