4 Things You Probably Don’t Know About the Grand Canyon

According to the National Park Service, Arizona's Grand Canyon is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Each year, around 4.9 million people travel to see "a giant hole in the ground."

Anyone who's ever stood on the rim of the Grand Canyon knows that the expansive, breathtaking beauty is much more than a simple attraction. It must be seen and experienced in person.

How Long Have People Been Visiting the Canyon?

People began visiting the Grand Canyon in earnest sometime in the late 1800s. The silver boom of the 1870s and the copper rush in the 1880s attracted miners to Arizona. They quickly realized the canyon’s scenic value far outweighed its mining potential.

In 1908, protections were enshrined when it was first declared a national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt, and it later became Grand Canyon National Park in 1919. Visitors have been visiting for well over a century, and the park has held its official status for more than a century.

Have you ever wondered, Is It Legal to Scatter Cremated Ashes in the Grand Canyon?

Who Lives at the Bottom of the Canyon?

Did you know there are people who live at the bottom of the Grand Canyon? The Havasupai Tribe, whose name means “people of the blue‑green water,” lives in Supai Village at the canyon floor. Their community is one of the most remote in the U.S., accessible only by foot, horse, or helicopter. Tourism to Havasu Falls is a major part of their economy.

Read more about the remote village here: Is This the Loneliest Town in Arizona?

How Dangerous Is the Grand Canyon, Really?

As beautiful as the Grand Canyon is, the height comes with a sobering edge. According to estimates, around 900 people have died in the canyon since record‑keeping began in the 1800s.

Causes range from aircraft crashes to heat exposure, but falls from the rim remain one of the most talked‑about dangers. Of the 55 documented accidental falls, 39 of the deaths were men. Most of those who perished were either taking a risk while attempting to get a photo or by stepping too close to the edge.

How Has the Recent Fire Affected Tourism?

In July of 2025, the Dragon Bravo Fire on the North Rim destroyed historic cabins and forced a full seasonal closure of the area.

While the South Rim remains open, the loss of the North Rim Lodge and the surrounding buildings shifted visitor traffic and disrupted travel plans. For many local businesses, the ripple effects are still unfolding.

Visiting the Grand Canyon

If you plan to visit the Grand Canyon, check their website for the latest news and information affecting the park. It's a breathtaking, beautiful experience you won't soon forget. Just make sure you pack good shoes, lots of water, and stay safe.