Grand Canyon History

Humans have called the Grand Canyon home for nearly 12,000 years, with native tribes weaving its majestic formations into their legends. The first European encounters began in the 1540s, but it wasn't until the late 19th century that serious exploration took place, culminating in John Wesley Powell's groundbreaking expedition in 1869. The Grand Canyon's fortunes shifted dramatically after a visit from President Roosevelt in 1903, marking a new chapter in its history.