Carving its way through 277 miles of Arizona desert, many people consider the Grand Canyon to be one of the greatest natural wonders on our planet. Created through millions of years of geological activity, the Grand Canyon represents one of the most complete geologic columns on earth, showcasing billions of years of natural history.

However, the Canyon is more than simply a geological wonder. Humans have occupied the area for thousands of years including Ancient Pueblo Peoples who carved their dwellings directly into the cliff walls. Conquistador Francisco Coronado first explored the area in 1540 and other Europeans followed throughout the next 300 years.

In 1869, soldier, explorer, and geologist John Wesley Powell led one of the most famous expeditions into the Grand Canyon becoming the first non-Native American to pass through the entire canyon along the Colorado River.

During late nineteenth century, American miners seeking riches made small attempts to settle the area but found little success. Largely unsuitable for most mineral or agricultural uses, tourism became increasingly popular as visitors hungered to visit the site.

By 1909, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway completed the first depot on the south rim opening access to thousands of affluent guests. Recognizing the need to protect the site as a national treasure, the federal government designated the Canyon first as a forest preserve, then as a National Monument, and finally a National Park in 1919.

Since that time, numerous structures and amenities have been added to the area, including the El Tovar Hotel, the Desert View Watchtower, and the recently added Grand Canyon Skywalk. Today, close to five million people per year visit this United Nations designated World Heritage Site to witness firsthand the natural beauty and cultural significance of one of America's most recognizable landmarks.

Podcast Written and Narrated by Lindsay Whidden, Public History Student at the University of West Florida.