Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Native American tribes have lived in the Grand Canyon region for over 10,000 years. The canyon features prominently in their legends, art, and spiritual beliefs, and many tribes still reside nearby.
The first non-Native Americans to encounter the canyon were likely Spanish explorers in the 16th century. However, it remained largely unknown to the wider public until the 19th century.
In 1869, John Wesley Powell led the first documented river expedition through the Grand Canyon. His journey brought national attention to the canyon's grandeur and contributed to its designation as a national park in 1919.
Today, the Grand Canyon is one of the most visited natural attractions in the United States, drawing millions of visitors annually.