What caused the Grand Canyon – Part 2

The most powerful force in the creation of the Grand Canyon has been erosion caused mostly by water, but also by the wind. Other contributors are the Colorado River, continental drift, vulcanism and the Earth’s orbit changing the climate.

Since the Grand Canyon is in a desert, water has the biggest impact. As the sun bakes the the soil, it cracks and becomes extremely hard. The tiny plants in the canyon have very shallow root systems due to the toughness of the ground and do nothing to deter the erosion.

Rainwater can wash down the surface of the canyon, taking with it rocks as big as cars. All of this debris runs into the Colorado River, which promptly whisks it away. As it goes, the debris tears more rock from the river bed and widens the gorge.

In the winter, the canyon snowfall melts and creeps into cracks where it refreezes. As it expands, the ice chips away even more rock. When the Rocky Mountain snows melt, the water sweeps down the canyon to carry away the debris.

Although the Glen Canyon Dam has slowed the erosion of the river, by slowing the spring floods, the canyon has another erosion slower. Where the top of the Grand Canyon is composed of softer rock, the base is composed of schist and granite. These volcanic rocks are much harder and take longer to erode.

As the North American plate moves onto the Pacific plate, the molten rock feeds the volcanoes of the Pacific Rim. All of this turmoil makes the continental plate buckle. This buckling is the cause of the western American mountains, as we know them today.

The sedimentary layers at the top of the canyon pay tribute to the change in climate. These sediments cover the roots of ancient mountains. The layers were deposited as the ocean rose and receded due to the rise and fall of sea level, which changes based on the melting and freezing of the polar caps.

Each layer of the Grand Canyon holds its own story in the history of the great gorge, each one a sign of ocean or river or snow or silt. The beauty of the Grand Canyon is as breath-taking, as its 20 million year striated story.

References: kaibab.org; holoscience.com; hypertextbook.com

Top five tourist attractions in the USA – Part 2

Picking five tourist attractions within the enormous expanse of the United States of America is no easy feat. Every state in the union has its own unique sights that attract thousands of vistors each year. There are a few that stand out immediately however, some are known for their natural beauty, while others are revered because of their historical value, but all of them hold a special place in the memories of many US tourists.

The Grand Canyon

Located in the Northwest region of Arizona, The Grand Canyon is perhaps the most impressive geological location in all of North America. Cut by the massive Colorado river, the canyon stretches for miles and even divides the national park into two distinct sections. Referred to as “rims”, the two sections of the park each have their own unique attractions. The South Rim is the most visited area of the park and is open year round, the Northern rim is only open from mid-May to mid-October. The Grand Canyon is a vacation that the whole family can enjoy, and for a modest price the sight of this massive canyon will instill memories that last a lifetime.

Washington D.C.

What better place to see America than the capital of our great country, with monuments to our greatest presidents and historical accomplishments, Washington D.C. is a vacation that holds great educational value as well as fun. After visiting such popular attractions such as The Lincoln Memorial, The Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capital building, learn about the great feats of science and engineering that the country was built on at the Smithsonian Institute.

Niagara Falls (US side)

Niagra falls is yet another geological marvel located in North America and thousands of tourists flock there each year to see the massive strength of the falls. With a length of 1060 feet and a height of 176 feet, the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls loom above the boats that cruise around at the base of the falls. Prime times to visit are June, July, and August, when the water is at its peak rate of flow.

New York City/ Statue of Liberty

New York City is easily one of the greatest and most renown cities on the face of the earth and the list of attractions here is nearly endless. The city attracts thousands of visitors each day and while some come to see the beautiful and hope-inspiring Statue of Liberty, or to visit the hollowed ground of Ground Zero, many others come for the big city attractions. While in New York not only can you visit Ellis Island, Central Park, or Times Square, but you can take in a show on Broadway or visit any of the many Manhattan hot spots.

Las Vegas, Nevada

If you’re looking for a more adult vacation, be sure to visit Las Vegas and its many casinos and entertainment venues. Take a stroll down Downtown Freemont Street, or visit The Mirage, or the famed MGM casino. Aside from the vibrant casino atmosphere there are tons of shows to take in, including major sporting events, and performances by world class entertainers. If that’s not your sort of thing, then visit the Hoover Dam and take in the awesome view that is afforded from the massive structure.

These are only a few of the tourist attractions the USA has to offer, within each state alone there are dozens. The USA has a rich history and is blessed with natural beauty that few other places on earth can rival, be sure to plan your trip in advance because you don’t want to miss a thing!

Guide to the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona – Part 4

Guide to the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Perhaps the most well known and certainly the most photographed national park in the United States, is the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. I’ll never forget the first time I saw it.

We had been driving, what to a young girl, seemed like forever. The only thing in sight, was the desert. It was dry and acrid but starkly, beautiful. And then we were there.

My first real understanding of just how small we really are,and how vast the world is, was that first glimpse of the Grand Canyon. I had never, and still haven’t, seen anything like it. It, quite literally, took my breath away. I was standing on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. It, like most of the area, is a wide, flat rock that juts slightly out over the canyon wall. When you look down, it’s WAAAYYY down. And there, in the distance, is the Colorado River. With, virtually, no barriers in place to keep the observers from falling, your knees get weak and you almost have the urge to fly.

The Colorado River is given the credit, by most scholars, as the reason for the existence of the Grand Canyon. While it is also huge, the chasm it created, is far more impressive.

There are many ways to view the Grand Canyon.

1. By foot: There are many trails all around the Canyon. You can hike some yourself and there are also daily tours for the inexperienced hiker. The tour guides have vast amounts of knowledge and will keep you entertained, and informed, through out your walk. Keep in mind that going all the way to the bottom of the canyon takes 5 hours and you will need to plan to spend the night.

2. By mule: Yes, a mule. You can ride along the rims on a, tour led, mule. These trips are fun and also quite informative. Beware though, just like with horseback riding, your thighs will be sore in the morning!

3. Helicopter: This tour is probably the most visually impressive and certainly covers the most ground. However, it is also quite expensive, so be prepared.

4. Jeep: You can also rent a jeep for the day (or two) and ride down into the Canyon and all along the rim. This is also quite expensive.

5. Rafting: Once you have traversed the canyon walls, you may want to rent a tour led rafting expedition, as well. I have never done this, but all signs point to wonderful fun! This is, of course, for the adventurous only.

6. Rim tours: There are two rims on the Grand Canyon. The north and south rims. Both offer stunning views

Top five tourist attractions in the USA – Part 3

The United States certainly is not short on things to see. With a lot of eccentric cities to select from, a traveler would simply find himself wondering where he would start when traveling in the United States. Listed are just some of the must-see places that would interest tourists typically for amusement opportunities, historical significance, architectural or natural beauty and inherent cultural value.

1. Disneyland

Location: Anaheim, California

On top of my list is Disneyland. A trip to this popular theme park is a vacation or holiday highlight for both the elderly and young alike. It is definitely the coolest place to see for all the family. This theme park always manages to bring a wonderful experience to most of its millions of guests each year.

2. “Times Square

Location: New York City, New York

New York City is one of the well-known tourist destinations in the United States and the world renowned Times Square is one of the must see places in this city. With its bustling energy, spectacular scenery, digital ads, fine dining and glittering lights, Times Square really has it all!

3. Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Arizona

As one of the world’s most well-known natural attractions, the Grand Canyon offers tourists an unsettling and an unprecedented view of stunning scenery. Tourists will surely enjoy Grand Canyon’s Skywalk, which is situated along the distinguished Colorado River. This horseshoe-shaped glass pavement has exceeded those of the globe’s leading skyscrapers. And for backpackers, the most rugged and stimulating trails offered by this natural park is surely an excitement! With thousands of square miles to look at and to explore, a tourist Grand Canyon visit can surely keep him busy all day long.

4. Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Location: San Francisco, California

This spot has actually gained two million more visitors each year than the famous Niagara Falls. And it is for this reason it is included on my list. This place besieges the San Francisco Bay and embraces one of the world’s most popular bridges, The Golden Gate. In this area, tourists may also check the Alcatraz Island as well as some chief remarkable military fortifications. Here, tourists will be treated to stunning views and they are assured of an amazing experience.

5. Las Vegas Strip

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

Visitors would surely enjoy the use of dramatic themes in this place. The Las Vegas Strip has themed hotels, restaurants and casinos. Here, visitors may find many of the world’s most celebrated casinos, hotels and resort properties. Most of the shows and attractions on this spot are situated on the hotel casino estates. Some of the well-known free attractions in this area include the White Tiger Habitat found at the Mirage, the Conservatory and water fountains at Bellagio, and the shows at Treasure Island Hotel and Casino.