As we celebrate our anniversary and look ahead to our next 75 years, achieving measurable, meaningful change will continue to be at the heart of our mission.
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Stat: 1919—the year President Woodrow Wilson signed a bill establishing the Grand Canyon as a national park.
Story: The Grand Canyon was dedicated as a national park 100 years ago. This anniversary commemorates the canyon’s legacy, but it has been around longer than that—at least 6 million years. Our host explores the beauty of this natural wonder with Wayne Ranney, a geologist who has spent his career studying the canyon. Listen in for a historical journey through this iconic landscape.
The Grand Canyon
A classic Grand Canyon scene from near the Verkamp's Visitor Center.
Wayne Ranney
The turquoise waters of the Little Colorado River near its junction with the Colorado. Dissolved calcium makes for the vibrant color.
Wayne Ranney
Point Imperial is the highest viewpoint on the Grand Canyon’s North Rim at 8,803 feet and overlooks the Painted Desert. This view is to the southeast.
Wayne Ranney
The view from the trail that leads from the Colorado River to the Nankoweap Granaries is not soon forgotten.
Wayne Ranney
Eleven Native American tribes have modern affiliations with Grand Canyon National Park. Evidence of their historical relations are found in overhangs on the rim and throughout the canyon.
Wayne Ranney