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A tourist gazes at the Grand Canyon.
- February 26 marks the 100th anniversary of the Grand Canyon National Park, one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
- The history of the land dates back millions of years.
- Explorers once thought the canyon was dangerous and inhabitable.
- Now its ecosystem is being threatened by a nearby dam.
Grand Canyon National Park celebrates its 100th anniversary on February 26, but the history of the land dates back millions of years.
Long before the canyon was considered a national treasure, it hosted indigenous ancestral populations, followed by small groups of explorers who struggled to navigate the terrain.
It wasn't until a 1869 expedition that Americans realized explorers could travel the entire canyon - which stretches nearly 230 miles - and live to tell the tale.
More than a century later, the canyon is considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
Take a look at its long and fascinating history.